"Hate?"
Celine blinked, staring at Arthur blankly for a few seconds. She tapped her fingers on the railing in contemplation and replied thoughtfully.
"Hate is an extreme word. I recognize the hate I feel for the people who tried to put me down with that nasty plan. I don't feel the same way about you."
"Then, what is it?"
"I'm not sure..." Celine rubbed his fingers together, as if trying to find an adjective. "If I have to use it, then...uncomfortable. Yes, I feel uncomfortable around you."
Arthur tilted his head. "Why?"
"Because you reminded me of the worst time of my life."
It was a flat, matter-of-fact answer.
"People kept telling me that I would grow to love you, that I would naturally form attachment once I saw you," Celine shook her head. "But I didn't."
She looked at Arthur, and while she knew this young alpha probably wanted to hear something different, she felt like a lie was more cruel than anything.
