"Emily, about what you're doing," he started, his tone somewhat stern.
"This sneaky journalist approach, digging into my past, isn't going to get you anywhere."
Emily looked taken aback by his harsh tone and quietly replied.
"I'm just doing my job...
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***Liam's Birthday Party (Amy's)***
Amy's heart was heavy as she made her way to Liam's birthday gathering. The events at the party yesterday were still fresh in her mind, and the realisation hit her like a ton of bricks: Alex would be there too.
Her breath caught in her throat at the thought of facing him again, especially after the unexpected and intense kiss they had shared. She knew she had to be strong to keep up the facade, but the conflicting emotions were tearing her apart.
As soon as she arrived at the venue, her eyes darted around, looking for Alex. A wave of panic washed over her when she spotted him across the room, talking and laughing with some friends.
She felt a sudden urge to turn and run, to escape the situation before it became too much to handle.
But then Marcus spotted her, his face lighting up with a warm smile, and he made his way over to her. His presence was a comfort, a familiar anchor in the storm of emotions she was experiencing.
"Emily! Glad you could make it," Marcus said, pulling her into a friendly hug.
Amy clung to him for a moment, feeling a bit more secure.
"Thanks, Marcus. Happy to be here."
"You look a bit tense. Everything okay?" Marcus asked, his eyes searching hers, concern shown on his face.
"I'm fine, just a little tired," Amy lied, forcing a smile. "It's been a long day."
Marcus seemed to accept her explanation, and they moved into the party, mingling with friends and celebrating Liam's birthday.
All the while, Amy couldn't help but feel Alex's eyes on her, and every glance in his direction sent a jolt of electricity through her.
She found herself sticking close to Marcus throughout the evening, using him as a buffer, a shield against the powerful emotions that threatened to overwhelm her. She laughed at the jokes, toasted on Liam's health, and did her best to appear carefree and happy.
But inside, she was anything but. The fear, confusion, and longing were all there, simmering beneath the surface, waiting to erupt.
As the night wore on, she knew she couldn't avoid Alex forever. Their paths would cross, their eyes would meet, and she would have to face the truth of what had happened between them.
But for now, she would cling to Marcus, grateful for his friendship and support, and do her best to navigate the complex web of feelings that had her trapped. The evening was far from over, and she knew the real challenges were yet to come.
