CHAPTER 19
93%
“Fine,” I said with exaggerated mercy. “I promised you could talk, so go ahead. But we won’t be alone–I’m married, and I respect my husband too much for that. Also, you have twenty minutes. I have better things to do.”
I glanced at my watch. “Your time starts now.”
In the past, Griffin would never have imagined kneeling and barking just to have a twenty–minute conversation with me.
But now he realized I’d become an essential part of his life–more important than his dignity.
The revelation had simply come too late.
“Tessa, I’m so sorry for everything I’ve done to hurt you,” he began with a bitter smile.
3
“For years, you stood by me, built my business with me, cooked for me, took care of my every need. You were incredibly good to me for twelve whole years. At first, I was touched by your devotion. But perhaps because those who are loved unconditionally begin to take it for granted, my appreciation faded, and I started to expect your goodness as my right.
“I became arrogant and self–centered, influenced by everyone around me. I convinced myself that you would never leave me, like a moon that can’t escape the earth’s gravity.
“I began hurting you repeatedly, trampling on your heart, making you cry and suffer countless times. Yet you still loved me enough to compromise again and again, which only made me more reckless.” Griffin took a deep breath, his voice breaking. “I thought that because you loved me so much, all I needed were a few kind words or small gifts to win you back.
ས་ས
“So I continually disappointed you, hurt you, and ignored your feelings. Even when your soul was crying out to me, I turned away. Worst of all, I was seduced by
something new and exciting, breaking my promise to marry you, choosing someone elşe instead.”
He choked back a sob. “I forgot that enough wounds will eventually drive away even the most devoted heart. You really don’t want me anymore…”
Griffin struggled to continue, needing several moments to compose himself. “Tessa, I’ve always loved you. You were my first love at eighteen. I just lost sight of that over the years. It wasn’t until I lost you that I finally woke up to the pain I’d caused.
1/2
12:24 PM Mon 12 May
19
93%
“You occupy such an important place in my life, but I had grown so accustomed to your presence, your kindness. I only realized what I had when you were gone.” The once–proud Griffin Hayes now knelt with his head bowed, looking up at me pitifully. “Tessa, could you… give me another chance? I promise I’ll never hurt you again. I’ll treat you well and spend the rest of my life making amends for my mistakes.”
I laughed coldly. “Making amends? You think your casual promises can erase years of damage? If so, your apologies and empty words must be incredibly valuable.” “Griffin, do you really think I’m so cheap? That I’ll be waiting exactly where you left me whenever you decide to come back?”
White–faced, Griffin shook his head. “Tessa, that’s not what I meant. I just—”
“But Griffin, that’s exactly what your actions say. After all you’ve done to hurt me, how dare you come begging for reconciliation? Or is your memory that selective? Let me remind you.”
37
Add to Library – Read Anytime
2/2