Ares POV "It wasn't love at first sight for me. It was a gradual process of learning how to love you, discovering the depths of our connection, and building something meaningful together. Our feelings may not have started the same, but I believe that we've grown to love each other in our way," I conclude, holding her gaze as I lay bare my heart. I notice a lack of visible pain in Blaire's eyes, a stoic mask that mirrors my ability to conceal emotions. "So, you don't want to do it with me?" she questions, her tone sharp, accompanied by a piercing glare that challenges my response. "I'm not ready," I confess softly, my words barely above a whisper as I acknowledge the truth of my feelings. Despite the intensity of our connection, there are still barriers I'm not prepared to cro