Chapter Four: The Apology and the Invitation

The next day, Maya tried to focus on work, but her thoughts were consumed by Alex and Kara's unexpected appearance. She could still feel the intensity of Alex's touch on her wrist, the way his voice softened when he called her name. And then there was Kara—beautiful, confident, and clearly determined to make her presence known.

By the time evening rolled around, Maya was exhausted from overthinking. She poured herself a glass of wine and sank into the couch, hoping for a quiet night. But just as she was starting to unwind, there was a knock at the door.

Her heart leapt, knowing exactly who it would be.

When she opened the door, Alex stood there, looking impossibly handsome in a dark hoodie and jeans. His hair was slightly messy, and he held a small bouquet of flowers in one hand.

"Maya," he began, his voice low, "I wanted to apologize for what happened yesterday. Kara shouldn't have come here, and I'm sorry she dragged you into… whatever that was."

Maya crossed her arms, leaning against the doorframe. "It wasn't exactly the warm welcome I was hoping for."

Alex's lips curved into a faint smile, but his eyes remained serious. "I get it. She caught you off guard, and that's on me. But I swear to you, she's not a part of my life anymore."

Maya stared at him, unsure whether to believe him. "She seemed pretty confident about her place in your life."

"She likes control," Alex said, his tone tinged with frustration. "She doesn't handle being cut off very well. But I promise you, it's over. I ended things with her months ago."

Her gaze flicked to the flowers in his hand. "And these?"

"An apology," he said, holding them out to her.

She hesitated, then sighed and took them. The scent of fresh roses filled the air. "You're lucky I like flowers."

His smile widened slightly, and he leaned against the doorframe, mirroring her stance. "Can I make it up to you? Dinner, my treat. Let me show you I'm not the guy Kara made me out to be."

Maya blinked. "Dinner? Like… a date?"

"If you want to call it that," Alex said, his eyes glinting with mischief. "Or just a peace offering."

Her stomach fluttered. Every instinct told her this was a bad idea, but the way he looked at her—like she was the only thing that mattered in that moment—made it impossible to say no.

"Fine," she said, trying to sound indifferent. "But if this goes badly, I'm blaming you."

"I'll take full responsibility," Alex said, his smile turning into something more wicked.

As she closed the door to get ready, Maya couldn't ignore the excitement building in her chest. Whatever happened next, one thing was certain: Alex was a man who didn't take no for an answer, and she wasn't sure if that scared her—or thrilled her.