Just as Katherine was about to set the tent down, Shawn remarked coldly, âThose who shirk responsibility shouldnât partake in the meal.â
Bobby knew Shawn was referring to him. Reluctantly, he followed Lily outside.
Before long, Shawn and Katherine finished setting up two tents. The moonlight streamed in, and Shawn produced a lamp, transforming the cave into a cozy refuge from the elements.
Bobby and Lily were outside, diligently preparing dinner. Katherine wanted to help but was unexpectedly yanked into the tent by Shawn.
Though something was spread out on the ground, it remained uncomfortably hard.
Shawn cradled Katherineâs head, using his arm as a makeshift pillow.
âWhat are you doing, Shawn?â
âWhat do you think?â
Katherine shoved him away, sitting up with visible awkwardness. The longer she thought about the situation, the more irritated she became. âShawn, donât you dare lay a finger on me again!â
âI want to talk to you.â
âI have absolutely nothing to discuss with you!â
The atmosphere grew heavy, both sitting in silence, weighed down by the uncomfortable tension between them.
âWhat is it about me that you despise? Iâm not asking you to love me; I just want a chance. You even dated Bobby back then.â
âShut up!â
Mentioning that humiliating past stirred up deep shame in Katherine.
Her relationship with Bobby had been a fleeting episode of adolescent recklessness.
But she wasnât young anymore.
In a relationship, she wanted someone who could bring her comfort, someone who could offer more than just fleeting emotions.
âIâm drawn to men who surpass me, those who can generate income and support me in my career.â
Shawn looked at her, unblinking. âAre you dating, or doing business?â
âIâm simply being realistic. Emotions are fickle, but the knowledge you gain from someone stays with you forever. I want the person Iâm with to help me grow, to help me become better.â
âSo, you just want someone more successful than you, and thatâs enough?â
Katherine scoffed. âShawn, youâre so full of yourself. To be honest, havenât you always relied on Joelle and Adrianâs help?â
âYeah.â Shawn reclined, propping his head up with his hand. âIâm the kind of guy who enjoys depending on others. I may not be able to give you much money, but I can offer you an abundance of love.â
His words were undeniably tempting.
Katherineâs heart fluttered for a brief moment, and she asked cautiously, âDo you really feel that strongly about me?â
âDo you really dislike me that much?â
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