I needed to find a way to meet Jared. Given the situation, he either had a hidden agenda or treated Ivanna as another fling. Both would be devastating to Ivanna. I couldn’t stand aside and watch my friend crumble.

I thought Trinity didn't care about him or ignored his affairs, but those were slim chances. A woman who commanded such respect wouldn't tolerate sharing her man. When I saw them together, their chemistry was unmistakable.

I felt an increasing dread. Still, Ivanna seemed prepared for the worst.

"There are no unyielding principles regarding emotions. Once you’re in it, you can’t resist, right? We're only human, not gods. The heart wants what it wants." Ivanna was conflicted, and her words left me uneasy.

Though I understood her, bittersweet love was something only few could grasp.

It was late, so I prepared to leave. Ivanna said, "Why don’t you stay the night?"

I shook my head. "I'd rather go home. We both could sleep here, but I have something important to do tomorrow.