He shook his head. “I wish it might have been different, Miss Cartwell. But you must understand, with things as they are, I cannot stay.” I swallowed hard. “I certainly do not understand. Please speak plainly, Mr. Eastbrook.” He finally met my eyes, his expression truly forlorn. “I mean the undeniable fact that you spent a night alone with another man.” I stood frozen, my heart stopping within my chest. “What?” He said nothing, only watched me. “It was an accident,” I blurted. “Nothing happened between Tristan and me. Nothing! You must believe me.” He gave a sad, humorless smile. “That is the
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