The jury earlier heard evidence that Mr Pearson told a doctor at Gilbert Bain Hospital in Lerwick that he had been trying to “get rid” of Ms Leveque.
Speaking about this to Mr Paterson, Mr Pearson said: “That’s been taken out of context.
“What I meant by that was sending her back to Canada not killing her.”
When Mr Paterson asked him whether he could have attacked her after she allegedly struck herself with the knife, Mr Pearson replied: “I suppose so. Anything could have happened.”
He also said during evidence: “I did love her. I did. I still do.”
Mr Pearson, a Canadian citizen, denies murdering Ms Leveque in February last year.
The jury has already heard that it was agreed Ms Leveque died as a result of stab wounds to her neck and chest.
Mr Pearson denies compressing her neck and holding her head under water.
He denies six other charges including an allegation he tried to cover up his involvement by sending text messages claiming she was in good health.
The trial before judge Lord Arthurson continues.