Alex leaned closer without touching her.

“Then give me a chance,” he said softly. “Just one. Let me show you who I am. Let you see that I’m not playing games.”

Ísis felt her chest tighten.

“Alex…” she murmured, her voice breaking. “I still haven’t forgotten my husband.”

His gaze softened instantly.

“I know,” he said calmly. “And you never will.” His hand slid gently down to her arm in a respectful caress. “And I wouldn’t want you to. He was part of your life.” He took a slow breath. “From the w