Chapter 8: A Test of Loyalty

The next few weeks unfolded with an awkward tension in the air. Amanda could feel Kennedy's distance, not only from Lily's incessant attempts to win him back but also due to his internal struggles. She worried that he was fighting battles she couldn't see.★★★

It all came to a head when Amanda overheard a conversation between Kennedy and his father. "You're too distracted with that girl, Kennedy. This company will fall apart if you don't focus," his father admonished. "I need you to understand the importance of our family legacy."

Each word felt like a weight pressing down on Amanda's heart. Was she unintentionally causing a rift between him and his family?

That evening, she decided to confront him. They met at a park where they had shared countless moments of joy. Kennedy, I can't ignore the distance between us anymore, she revealed, her voice trembling. I fear I'm holding you back.

Holding me back? Amanda, you light up my world. It's the pressure of family expectations that's weighing on me, not you. He ran a hand through his hair, frustration spilling over. I want to make this work, but I need to balance everything.

I don't want to be just a part of your life; I want to be there, truly be there for you, Amanda confessed.

I want that too, he replied passionately. Let's face this together.