Jasmine's POV
"Quite a view, isn't it?" Jayden's voice carried across the rooftop terrace, though his eyes weren't on the sprawling cityscape below.
They were fixed on me.
I felt the weight of his stare like a physical touch, intense and searching. He was waiting for me to respond, expecting some kind of reaction that would bridge whatever gap existed between us.
But I couldn't give him what he wanted.
My feet felt cemented to the ground, throat constricting as my pulse hammered against my ribs. I managed only a stiff nod, my hands betraying me with their subtle tremor.
Speaking felt impossible. Every emotion I'd buried anger, heartbreak, that stubborn flicker of hope threatened to spill out if I dared open my mouth. I drew in a careful breath, fighting to maintain my composure.
I started to turn away when he spoke again.
