Their Secret Obsession (A Reverse Harem) by Pippa Moon novel Chapter 285

Connie POV

"It's not about interest," he finally answered after what felt like an eternity. "It's about doing what's right." But I wasn't buying it. The way his eyes flickered, the slight hesitation before he spoke—it all hinted at something deeper. He wasn't avoiding this because it was wrong; he was avoiding it because he was afraid. Afraid of crossing some invisible line, of betraying some unspoken code. Or maybe, just maybe, he was afraid of how much he actually wanted me. I could sense it—the tension between us was palpable, electric. This wasn't about morality; it was about restraint.

"Right? And what's so wrong about two people enjoying each other's company?" I let out a soft laugh, trying to push the subject.

"Because it wouldn't be fair—to anyone involved." He gently removed my hand from his arm, making frustration bubble up. A knot formed in my stomach, twisting painfully. The sting of rejection was becoming all too familiar, and I couldn't bear it. Not again. The need for validation, for someone to choose me for once, surged within me. Why was he resisting? Was I not desirable enough? Fear crept in, whispering insecurities I tried so hard to bury. I needed him to want me, to prove that I wasn't as unworthy as I felt.

"Fair?" I echoed bitterly. "Was it fair when Lottie came back tonight and turned everything upside down? Is it fair that Kane and Knox discard me like yesterday's news?"

Anger and hurt swirled within me like a storm. Lottie had always been the runt, the unwanted daughter, yet somehow she was the one everyone adored. She was the useless friend who stumbled through life, and still, everything was handed to her on a silver platter. Meanwhile, I had to fight for every scrap of attention, every ounce of respect. It wasn't fair. She took everything for granted while I was left in the shadows, unseen and unappreciated. The bitterness tasted sharp on my tongue, fueling the fire of resentment that burned in my chest.

"I understand you're hurt—" He sighed. His eyes softened, lips pressing into a thin line. The way he looked at me—like I was some wounded animal in need of compassion—made my skin crawl. Pity. That was the last thing I wanted from him. I didn't need his sympathy; I needed him to see me, to want me. His expression only amplified the humiliation simmering inside me.

"Healing takes time. But making choices you'll regret won't help." Finally, he spoke softly. I felt a sting behind my eyes, tears threatening to spill. Damn it, I wouldn't cry—not here, not in front of him. I straightened up, taking a shaky breath.

"I should go," I murmured, turning away. A sharp ache pierced my chest, the weight of rejection pressing down on me like a heavy stone. Three men had turned me away tonight, but if I was honest with myself, it was his rejection that cut the deepest. Not Knox's indifference or Kane's coldness, but Chase's refusal stung in a way I hadn't anticipated.

It was as if his opinion held more weight, piercing through my defenses. Maybe because, deep down, I knew he saw the real me—the parts I hid behind bravado and seduction. The vulnerability he stirred within me was terrifying yet impossible to ignore. Why did I suddenly crave his acceptance above all others? The thoughts unsettled me, adding another layer to my turmoil.