Chapter 6

" I'm afraid that's not possible as I have other things to attend to " She said politely.

" You're sad and lonely, aren't you? " He blurted out, staring deep into her eyes. Ava felt he could see through her soul.

Her eyes flickered, a subtle interplay of emotions dancing within their depths. She seemed to wrestle with conflicting impulses, torn between letting him in or maintaining the barrier she had carefully erected.

" I appreciate your concern, but I can't... " Her voice trailed off, a veil of reticence settling over her features.

" I won't push if you don't want me to " Bryan assured her, sensing the fragility of the moment. " But know that if you ever need someone to talk to, I'll be here "

Ava looked confused, how did he expect her to find him even if she wanted to open up to someone? Oh, this was someone who got her place easily so that wouldn't be difficult for him, she thought.

She started to talk " How do you... "

But Bryan interrupted her " It's okay, Ava. There will a