This is it. God, I fucked up so bad.

The thought looped in Alex’s head as he stared at you and Bridget, both bound and gagged, fear etched across your faces. The moment he saw you—helpless, tied up—rage burned through him, so fierce it felt like fire from the pits of hell.

Alex had recently uncovered the truth: it wasn’t who he thought that killed his parents, but his uncle. Eight years of manipulation, and the betrayal stung. But what hurt more was that you got dragged into it—his girl, the one he loved more than anything.

After discovering the truth, Alex had made his move, tampering with business files, knowing it would provoke his uncle. He hadn’t expected it to go this far: fifty million, his position as CEO, and taking you and Bridget as leverage.

So, he lied. Lied about caring, lied about loving you. It tore you apart—and it destroyed him even more.

“That’s where you’re wrong,” Alex drawled, keeping his gaze locked on his uncle. “She was never more than a pawn in my game. Why do you think I pulled back after everything? She was useless to me. I’ll admit, the sex was good.” He shrugged. “That’s the only reason I didn’t cut her off sooner.”

His heart clenched, but he forced a cold smirk as he turned toward you. “Sorry, Sunshine,” he sneered, making the nickname sound cruel. “Guess the cat’s out of the bag.”

He strode over to you, crouching down, and cupped your tear-streaked cheek. The sight of your pain twisted his gut, but he couldn’t let it show. He had to protect you, even if it meant losing you.

I’m sorry, Sunshine.