**Chapter 16: Unraveling Secrets**

As James's words hung in the air, Pamela felt like she'd been punched in the gut. How did he know? She tried to speak, but her voice caught in her throat. James's eyes seemed to bore into her soul, as if searching for the truth. Pamela's mind raced as she tried to think of a response. She couldn't deny it; she'd been hiding something from him. But how much did he know? And what did he plan to do with this information? James took a step closer, his eyes never leaving hers. "Pamela, I've been doing some research," he said, his voice low and measured. "I've been looking into your past, trying to understand who you are and why you're here." Pamela's heart skipped a beat. She'd been so careful, covering her tracks and creating a new identity for herself. But James seemed to have uncovered something. "What have you found?" she asked, trying to sound nonchalant despite the panic rising inside her. James smiled, a small, enigmatic smile. "I've found that there's very little information about you," he said, his eyes glinting with curiosity. "No records, no family history, no past. It's as if you appeared out of thin air." Pamela felt a cold sweat break out on her forehead. She'd been prepared for this, but it still sent a shiver down her spine. "I...I don't know what to say," she stammered, trying to play it cool. James took another step closer, his eyes burning with intensity. "I think you do, Pamela," he said, his voice low and husky. "I think you know exactly what I'm talking about. And I think it's time you told me the truth." Pamela felt trapped, cornered by James's piercing gaze. She knew she couldn't deny it any longer; she had to come clean. But how much could she reveal? And what would James do with this information? As she hesitated, James reached out and gently brushed a strand of hair behind her ear. His touch sent shivers down her spine, and for a moment, Pamela forgot about the secrets and lies. All she could think about was the way James's eyes seemed to see right through her, and the way his touch made her feel alive. But the moment passed, and reality snapped back into place. Pamela knew she had to make a decision. She could try to keep hiding, or she could take a chance and reveal the truth. With a deep breath, she began to speak, the words tumbling out of her like a confession. "James, I...I don't know where to start," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. James's eyes locked onto hers, his expression intense and expectant. "Start at the beginning," he said, his voice low and gentle. "Tell me everything."