*Noah's POV*
The morning after Liam's call, I wake with a strange emptiness in my chest. Today is the day. Tonight, Chloe will say yes to Ethan Pierce, and whatever remained of our story will finally end.
My phone rings. It's Liam again.
"Noah, please. Just think about what I said yesterday. About Emma. She's nothing like Chloe, and she always—"
"Stop right there," I cut him off. "I'm not interested in your sister. Any of your sisters."
"But Emma's different. She's kind, she's genuine, and she never looked down on you when you were with Chloe. She actually defended you multiple times."
I rub my temples. "Liam, I appreciate what you're trying to do, but no."
"Just meet her. One coffee. What's the harm?"
"The harm is that I'm not ready for anything like that. And honestly? After everything with your family, I think I need some distance."
Liam falls silent. When he speaks again, his voice is small. "I understand. I just... I hate seeing you alone when tonight happens."
