Nicole’s POV
"I've had a pretty rough few days myself," Alex admits, his voice dropping to a soothing murmur. "For a while there, I was convinced I was caught in some giant scam, like my emotions were just part of some elaborate game. I was mad—not just because you lied, but because I felt like the punchline of a very bad joke, a pawn caught in your chess match."
"It's not like that! Absolutely not!" I insist urgently, gripping his hand like it’s my only lifeline. "You mean everything to me, Alex. You're the only one I genuinely wanted to get serious with. Every lie, every absurd plan, was just a misguided attempt to get closer to you! I messed up big time, I was terrified of being turned down flat, so I resorted to these ridiculous schemes. I am sorry. I'm really sorry, Alex!"
"Enough,
