CHAPTER THIRTY – IS HE SINCERE?

As Alex poured out his heart, Cassie found herself torn. The sincerity in his eyes, the tremor in his voice - it all seemed so genuine. She could see the Alex she'd fallen in love with, the sweet, passionate musician who had once made her feel like the most special person in the world. But then she remembered the pain, the constant walking on eggshells, the way his jealousy had slowly eroded her sense of self. She thought about her new job at the Grey Room, about the future she'd started to envision for herself. "I don't know, Alex," she said finally, her voice barely above a whisper. "So much has happened. I've changed. I'm not sure we can go back." Alex nodded, understanding in his eyes. "I know. I'm not asking to go back, Cassie. I'm asking for a chance to move forward. Together. A fresh start." He reached out, gently taking her hand. The familiar warmth of his touch sent a jolt through Cassie's body. "Just... think about it?" he asked. "Please?" As Cassie looked into Alex's e