Time and again, Rena surrendered to his purported tenderness and love, ensnared in a cycle from which she couldn't break free. Ultimately, she realized it was merely a game for him, and she alone had taken it to heart.

A self-mocking laugh escaped Rena's Lips.

“No! It's unnecessary," she declared firmly.

A faint furrow formed on Waylen's brow but he refused to release her hand.

Caught in a deadlock, their stalemate was abruptly interrupted by the sound of the doorbell.