Chapter 10: Elena's Desperate Lie

Adrian froze mid-kneel, his eyes narrowing in confusion.

"What did you just say?" He asked, his voice low but sharp.

Elena's chest heaved as she glared at him.

"I said no!" She snapped, stepping back.

Adrian slowly rose to his feet, still holding the ring. His eyebrows furrowed in disbelief.

"You knew what I was going to do, didn't you? And you are turning me down? After everything?" He asked, his voice tight. 

Elena stared at him silently, her mind racing.

"After all these months, Elena? Months of me showing you nothing but pure love?" He snapped. His tone had grown louder, his disbelief morphing into frustration.

"I…" Elena began, but words failed her.

She moved to close the door, but Adrian blocked it, his hand firm against the frame.

"Elena, what is going on? Talk to me!" He demanded, his face hardening.