novelraw Chapter 155: Trying To Get In Your Pants
Chapter 155: Trying To Get In Your Pants
Chapter 155: Trying To Get In Your Pants
Levi felt a surge of warmth spread through him as he noticed Lyse watching him, she had been watching him the entire time. He had tried to appear nonchalant, focusing his attention on the children, but he could not completely suppress the hope that flickered within him. Her presence, even from across the room, was a powerful force, a reminder of the connection they had once shared.
He continued playing with the children, reading them stories, and engaging in their playful banter. He tried to contain his excitement, to avoid looking at Lyse too often or even at all, but he could not resist the occasional glance no matter how hard he tried. He noticed the subtle shifts in her expression, the flicker of emotions that played across her face.
He could sense her internal struggle, the conflict between her anger and her lingering affection. It was obvious to see that she was still drawn to him despite what she had said, despite what she wanted to believe.
After spending some time with the children, Levi sought out Vanessa, the director of the shelter. He wanted to discuss some further plans for the facility, plans that he had been working on in the background.
"Vanessa," he said, approaching her with a warm smile. "I wanted to let you know that I have arranged for some contractors to come and assess the compound next week. I’m hoping that we can start construction on the additional housing units very soon."
Vanessa’s face lit up with excitement. "Levi, that is so wonderful!" she exclaimed. "That would make such a huge difference for the women here. We are so incredibly grateful for your generosity."
"It’s the least I can do," Levi replied, his gaze softening as he glanced back at the children playing. "This is a cause I truly believe in and it is an honor to be able to do what I can."
He spent a few more minutes discussing the details with Vanessa, finalizing the arrangements for the construction project since he would not be coming with them. As he prepared to leave, he felt a presence behind him. He turned to see Lyse standing there, her expression a mixture of gratitude and... something else. Something that looked suspiciously like... sheepishness?
"Levi," she said, her voice soft.
He turned to face her fully, his heart pounding in his chest even though he remained calm. He had been longing for this moment, this chance for her to walk up to him, even if it was just for a brief exchange.
"Lyse," he replied, his voice gentle.
"I... I wanted to thank you," she said, her gaze dropping to the floor. "For everything you have done for the shelter. It means a lot to the women here."
Levi nodded, his gaze fixed on her face. He could see the conflict in her eyes, the internal struggle she was facing.
"It is my pleasure," he said, his voice sincere. "As I said, it’s a cause I believe in."
A moment of silence hung between them, the air thick with unspoken emotions. Lyse looked up at him, her eyes searching his.
"I know what you are doing," she said, her voice barely a whisper. "You’re trying to... win me back. By doing all of this, but... but it won’t work!"
Levi’s heart sank slightly. He had hoped that his actions would demonstrate his genuine desire to help, but he understood her suspicion. He had given her reason not to trust him.
"Lyse," he said, his voice gentle but firm, "you have made your choice. You have made it very clear to me that you want nothing to do with me. And as much as I want you in my life, I respect your decision."
He paused, his gaze meeting hers. "I’m doing this because want to, because I can," he continued. "I’m fortunate enough to be in a position where I can help these women, and I want to use that privilege for good. It has nothing to do with... trying to win you back."
He took a step closer, his voice softening into a husky whisper. "Although," he added, his voice barely a whisper, "I won’t deny that I want you back. More than anything in the world."
He had been fighting it since she came near him and he could smell her lotion, he could resist the urge no longer. He gently reached out and brushed a stray strand of hair from her face. His touch was light and tender, he waited for her to pull away from him and when she stayed, looking at him with those eyes. He then leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to her cheek, his heart aching with longing.
He pulled back, his gaze meeting hers. He could see the confusion in her eyes, the internal struggle she was facing.
"I should go," he said, his voice low. "I won’t bother you again. If you feel I’m intruding on your privacy, I won’t come around here."
He turned and began to walk away, then he turned around and came back. "I think that if you let this thing that happened with us, ruin the opportunity you have to show the world what you are capable of then it’s a big shame." He said.
Lyse narrowed her eyes in confusion, "what are you talking about? She asked."
"The Golden Fleece Competition, I helped you start up a fashion brand because I knew how talented you were, all you needed was a chance." He continued, "not because I was trying to get into your pants."
With that, he turned away once more. Leaving Lyse standing there, her hand still touching the cheek he had kissed. She watched him go, her mind a whirlwind of conflicting emotions. His words, his actions, his gentle touch, had stirred something within her, a flicker of hope, a lingering spark of affection.
But the pain of his betrayal was still fresh, a constant reminder of the deep chasm that separated them. What kind of woman would she be to shamelessly be with her ex’s father? She knew she had a lot to think about, a lot to process. But one thing was certain: Levi’s presence, even in this brief encounter, had left a lasting impact, a seed of doubt planted in the fertile ground of her heart.