Chapter 360

She barely had time to process that before he pressed on. "I know this is one-sided right now. You don't feel the same way, and that's fine." His tone was calm, free of expectation or demand. "But just so you know-I helped you tonight because I wanted to. Not because I expect anything in return. I'd never twist it into some kind of bargaining chip."

Because if he did... wouldn't that make him no different from Eric?

Denver let out a breath, rubbing the back of his neck. He wasn't usually one for long speeches, but this one? He meant every word.

"You need my help, Hadley, and I'm happy to help you. Don't push it away just because of my feelings for you."

Hadley hesitated. He was so frustratingly clear-headed, so reckless in his sincerity.

But she had to make him understand.

"I know this makes me sound cruel, but I'm not Larsa. And this?" Her voice was quieter now, more measured. "This isn't some grand, romantic story. Any effort you put into me will go nowhere."