Chapter 8
I feared being hurt again, feared losing someone again, feared betrayal, feared deception.
I told Thomas about my past experiences, about the pain I had suffered, my concerns and
insecurities.
I thought he might back away, but he didn’t.
“Rowan, I know you’ve been hurt before, but I’m willing to give you time, willing to wait for you to
heal.”
“I love you not because of your past, but because of your present and future.”
“Time will prove everything–trust me, okay?” Thomas held my hand, his gaze firm yet gentle.
His words brought tears to my eyes.
I was no longer afraid, no longer hesitant, and I immediately accepted his proposal.
Because I knew he was worthy of my lifelong commitment, and I was willing to face whatever the
future held with him.
Life after marriage was happy and sweet. Thomas and I ran the little shop together, and when business was slow, we traveled together, enjoying life of two of us.
We visited more places and witnessed more beautiful scenery.
Our relationship grew deeper and stronger with each journey.
He showed me that a relationship isn’t about one person’s unconditional sacrifice, but about both
people’s mutual effort.
Our life grew happier day by day.
Just when I thought I had completely put the past behind me, by chance, I saw Mason’s public apology on television.
He stood before the camera, looking haggard, his eyes filled with exhaustion and remorse.
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Run from Your Killing Lies. Leave You to Suffer Forever
Chapter 8
Though dressed in an impeccable suit, his former vigor had vanished, replaced by a weariness that spoke of difficult times.
Then, before the reporters, he delivered his prepared speech:
“Rowan, I know I was wrong. I hurt you and your mother.”
“All those things I said and did–they were my fault.”
“I live with regret every day, wishing I could turn back time for a chance to make amends.”
“Please come back, Rowan. Give me one chance to return to how we were. I promise to spend my lifetime making up for my mistakes.”
Mason’s voice was deep and hoarse, clearly sincere.
Watching his apology, my heart remained calm.
Because five years had taught me to let go and find peace.
I once suffered terribly from his betrayal, but now I had emerged from that shadow, found a new life, a new love, a new happiness.
Mason’s apology didn’t move me–instead, I found it somewhat laughable.
I knew better than anyone that he was skilled at pretending, skilled at lying.
It was truly absurd that he thought a simple apology could erase his past mistakes.
What right did he have to ask me to return to him? Some wounds can never be healed, and once some people are lost, they can never return.
I turned off the television, no longer interested in his performance.
My life had turned to a new chapter, and I didn’t want to be troubled by the past anymore.
Every minute, every second with Thomas brings me joy–and I think this is what Mom would have wanted to see.
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