chapter 103

Alana’s point of view. I sat still for a moment, lost in thought, wondering what to do. I had a strange urge to talk, to explain everything to Alec. His persistence and the way he approached the conversation left me feeling bewildered. Why would he bring this up if he already had plans in motion? I snacked on the gummies he had bought for me, one of the many snacks he had provided for this long ride. Despite the blasting air conditioning, I still felt sweat forming on my skin. I took deep breaths and tried to calm myself, but my mind was racing. Alec cleared his throat, drawing me out of my deep contemplation. "I'm only going to ask one last time, and that's because I really care about us, and something clearly shifted between us," he stated, and I could tell he wouldn't let this go, even though we were close to being home. "Alec," I sighed, burying my face in the palms of my hands. "Alana, is there any reason you've been avoiding me these past two weeks?" Alec asked again. Seein