The night was dark as ink. Jamie stared at her, asking in disbelief, “Just because of this, you want to leave me? Just a few days ago, things were great between us.”

“Yes, it did feel wonderful. I finally felt cherished! However, your current actions and words are telling me that I'm not worthy, Jamie. I don’t deserve your respect because our beginning was less than honorable…

"Look at Yara. She’s a family friend of the Lockwood family; she has your care, and she still has your comfort and company even after a breakup. As for me, however, all I seem to receive is humiliation.”

…

As Paityn spoke, a sadness crept over her. She truly didn’t want to compare herself to others; love wasn’t meant to withstand comparisons, which only ended in hurt.

Paityn thought of herself, Jamie, and Carol. She didn’t want things to escalate into hostility between them—she wanted to end things on friendly terms.

“Let’s just leave it be,” Paityn murmured softly. It sounded like the best conclusion.