Chapter 67: The Lion's Roar (Liam's POV)

A visceral surge of possessiveness, raw and powerful, ripped through me the moment I saw Ava engaged in conversation with that man. It wasn't simply jealousy; it was a primal urge to protect what was mine, to shield Ava from the intrusion of this stranger's admiring gaze.My carefully constructed composure crumbled, replaced by a wave of irritation. Why hadn't she mentioned this strikingly handsome assistant? Was this some sort of test? Or was she playing a game I didn't understand?Doubt, a venomous serpent from the depths of my past, whispered insidious suggestions in my ear. Was this the reason for our secrecy? Was she keeping her options open, enjoying the attention of other men while I remained in the shadows?The thought was absurd, I knew. Ava wasn't like that. Her honesty, her integrity, shone through in everything she did. But the fear, the lingering sting of past betrayals, made it hard to silence the doubts completely.When the other man finally left, I couldn't contain the maelstrom of emotions any longer. I turned to Ava, my expression a mask of annoyance, but my eyes, I knew, betrayed the turmoil within.Her playful response, the mischievous glint in her eyes, only fueled the fire within me. I saw the challenge in her gaze, the deliberate attempt to provoke a reaction. And I couldn't resist.Grabbing her arms, I pushed her gently against the wall, caging her with my body. The possessiveness, the primal urge to claim her as mine, overwhelmed me. My eyes, usually soft with affection, hardened with an intensity that mirrored the storm raging within.Her breath hitched, a flicker of surprise and something akin to excitement flashing in her eyes. The realization that my touch, my intensity, had elicited such a response sent a thrill through me, a primal satisfaction that momentarily eclipsed my anger.Leaning closer, I searched her gaze, desperate for reassurance. The question escaped my lips, a hoarse whisper betraying my vulnerability: "Is this why you wanted to keep our relationship a secret?"The accusation hung heavy between us, a testament to the lingering insecurities that haunted me. But then, Ava's expression softened, the playful defiance melting away, replaced by a genuine concern that mirrored my own."No, Liam!" she exclaimed, her voice filled with sincerity. "That's not it at all. I love you. Only you."Her hands reached up to cup my face, her touch a soothing balm to my wounded pride. I closed my eyes, letting the warmth of her touch chase away the shadows of doubt. I knew she was telling the truth.The anger within me dissipated, replaced by a wave of shame for my irrational outburst. I had let my past dictate my present, allowing the ghosts of betrayal to poison the pure, honest connection I shared with Ava."I'm sorry, Ava," I murmured, my voice husky with regret. "I overreacted."Her smile, radiant and forgiving, eased the tightness in my chest. "It's okay, Liam. I understand."We kissed, a slow, tender exploration that spoke volumes more than words ever could. It was a kiss of forgiveness, of reassurance, of a love that transcended insecurities and past hurts.As I held her close, I felt a wave of gratitude wash over me. Ava, with her unwavering love and understanding, was helping me heal, showing me that true love was possible, that I deserved happiness. And I, in turn, was determined to be the man she deserved, to shed the weight of my past and embrace the bright future that awaited us, together.