CHAPTER THIRTY-ONE - Old Wounds

Claire sat down, steeling herself for the conversation ahead. "Liam, we need to discuss why you're really here." Liam's smile faltered slightly, but he quickly recovered. "I told you, I wanted to congratulate you on your success. And... well, seeing you again, it's made me realize how much I've missed you." Claire felt a twinge of sympathy at the vulnerability in his voice, but she pushed it aside. "Liam, I appreciate that, but I think we both know it's not that simple. Our relationship ended for good reasons." "But people change, Claire," Liam pressed, leaning forward. "I've had time to think about my mistakes, about how I treated you. I know I can do better now. We were good together once. We could be again." Claire shook her head, her resolve strengthening. "No, Liam. We couldn't. I've moved on, and I think deep down, you have too. This isn't about rekindling our relationship. It's about your ego." Liam's expression darkened. "My ego? What's that supposed to mean?" "It means t