#29 "Tell Me How You Really Feel"

Seeing that Sophia is still looking at him with contempt, Alexander tries reassuring her, "I guarantee you I was just joking. I will not say a word to anyone."

Sophia nods her head in acknowledgment, but the apprehension still lingers in her eyes. As she starts to turn her gaze out the window, Alexander presses on. "Look, I know that you don't like me. That's very obvious."

Shifting back to face him, Sophia holds his gaze, her expression guarded. She remains silent, waiting for him to continue.

"Well, at least you're not denying it," Alexander remarks softly. "Can you at least tell me what I did to deserve such distaste from you?"

Sophia chuckles, a mix of exasperation and amusement in her voice. "Are you serious?" she asks incredulously.

"Yes," Alexander replies sincerely. "I feel like I deserve an explanation for all the animosity."

Sophia takes a moment to collect her thoughts before responding, her tone becoming more assertive. "You know that Evelyn Crimms is my best friend," she