章 64: The painful rejection

Silas towered over her, his presence filling the confined space. Esme stared up at him, mouth agape, her mind struggling to catch up with the rapid turn of events. 

"What are you doing?" she finally managed, her voice trembling with a mix of shock and anger.

He didn't answer immediately, just held her gaze with an intensity that made her skin prickle. Silas said as the elevator started moving, "Don't play games, Esme. You didn't leave anything. That was a poor excuse."

Shame flooded her cheeks as he effortlessly exposed her lie. But anger quickly followed- hot and simmering. "Leave me alone!" she spat, struggling against his hold.

"I won't," his voice echoed in the small space, carrying a dangerous edge. "Not until we talk." 

Silas couldn't bear the look of hurt and anger in her eyes. He wanted her to look at him with affection and admiration. 

"Why are you angry with me?" he ventured, his voice carrying a hint of desperation.