JAYDEN'S POV
I felt the warmth of Selena’s fingers against my cheek and the softness of her smile, but my heart was miles away, consumed by thoughts of Aliya. “Selena, I...” I began, trying to find the right words.“Shhhhhhh… Kiss me,” she cut me off, pressing her index finger against my lips.
For a second, the room seemed to close in around me. The scent of her perfume, the softness of her skin, and the promise of an escape from my torment all beckoned me.
But the image of Aliya, her eyes filled with tears and pleading for me to trust her, was seared into my mind. I couldn’t betray her, not even in my moment of weakness.
With a deep breath, I pulled away, shaking my head. “No, Selena. I can’t do this.”Her eyes widened in surprise, and then narrowed in frustration.
“Why? She left you
