Chapter 552

Steven stood before the door. At six feet two inches tall, he had to look down slightly to meet Annie’s eyes. Looking up at him, Annie felt a sudden distance, a sense of alienation that rooted her to the spot. She couldn't move, as if her feet were glued to the floor. This was a stark contrast to their afternoon encounter.

That afternoon, Steven's eyes had shone with a bright, unwavering light—the kind one sees when gazing at a beloved, a light full of strength and firmness. He seemed capable of giving her the world, of shielding her from harm, of keeping her safe under his care. Even if his strength were limited, he would use all his power to protect her.

But now, a faint coldness held his gaze as he looked down at Annie. The affection from earlier had vanished.

Annie's heart tightened. "Steven," she said, her voice strained.

He glanced outside. "Come in, let's talk," he replied in a low voice.

"Okay." Annie walked in heavily, settling onto the couch. The comfort offered little solace against the chill she felt inside.

"Why did you come to find me?" Steven asked.

Annie's heart skipped a beat. "You don't trust me anymore, do you?"

"I genuinely like you, Annie, but you shouldn't deceive me," Steven said calmly. "I may not like manipulating others, but that doesn't mean I don't understand it."

Annie's heart pounded. Tears welled in her eyes. Unable to remain seated, she stood abruptly. "No, Steven, it's not like that. There have been misunderstandings, but what I've told you is true. I know there's been a profound misunderstanding between Skylar and me. I understand Skylar's doubts."

"But Steven," she continued, "since we committed to this relationship, you said mutual trust was key to making it last. Why are you suddenly doubting me?"

"I did say that," Steven replied, "but I also said there shouldn't be lies between us. Annie, everything you've said still seems self-serving and deceitful. I understand why you approached me." His words, though calm and unemotional, struck Annie like blows.

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His demeanor remained calm, yet each word resonated deeply. Annie stared at him, confused, her face paling. "What did Skylar say that made you believe her so unquestioningly?"

She couldn't comprehend it. She had initiated the meeting, arriving early and admitting to certain things upfront. This should have fostered trust in her before questioning Skylar. She couldn't believe he'd choose Skylar's words over hers.

"The very question reveals your guilt," Steven stated. "Annie, I genuinely liked you. But some things don't need a messy ending. Let's part amicably." He was proposing a breakup.

Annie staggered, nearly falling. "What did you say? Break up?" she asked, disbelief etched on her face.

"There's no need for us to see each other again." His voice remained cold and resolute. His composure only highlighted the growing distance between them. Initially, he'd attributed this distance to a woman's reserve, the normal dynamics of a relationship, or perhaps his own insufficient sense of security regarding Annie. But now, having learned some truths, he understood: she had merely used him.

Annie's heart pounded. Instinctively, she grabbed his arm.