91

It was morning, and as I opened my eyes, I saw Xander peacefully sleeping beside me. Reality hit me like a wave crashing against the shore. I understood that it was the influence of alcohol that had brought me to this vulnerable state, where I had let down my guard.

Exhaling deeply, the weight of guilt washed over me. I couldn’t believe I had come here and slept with the man who held the power to shatter my heart. I got up and made my way toward the bathroom, only to find my dress ripped and wet on the floor. Hastily, I grabbed a bathrobe, my mind in a fog of hangover and aching emotions. All I wanted was to leave the room immediately, to escape from the consequences of my actions.

As I approached the door, I heard his voice. “Where are you going?” Xander woke up, his words slicing through the air.

I didn’t turn back to face him, knowing that confrontation would only make everything more difficult.

“I’m leaving, and whatever happened between us, it was a mistake.”

“What did you say?