deep–seated desire
Chapter30
I felt a new hollowness form in my chest as I considered his words, the comfort and security of being surrounded by loved ones, of being enveloped in the warmth of family,
Boston, a place where memories of Keith were scarce, where I could start anew, leave the heartache behind. But, Thesitated, unsure if running away was the answer, unsure if I was ready to leave behind the life I had built, the memories, both good and bad.
Leona’s words hung in the air, gentle offer of escape, a chance to flee the memories and heartache that lingered in every corner of this city.
Boston, a new beginning, a fresh start, a chance to lewe the ghosts of my failed relationship behind. I considered her offer, weighing the pros and cons, the comfort of familiarity against the uncertainty of a new chapter. San Francisen, once a symbol of love and promise, now felt like a prison.
“I’m tine,” I said, my voice firm, a declaration of independencer and resilience.
Thad bullt a life here, a career, a sense of self, mill wasn’t about to let Keith’s infidelity dismantle it all. I wasn’t the one who had erred, who had dishonoured the promises and trust. I wasn’t the one who should be ashamed, who should be fleeing
No, I would stay, I would face the music, I would rise from the ashes of this wreckage, stronger, wiser, and more determined than ever. I wouldn’t let Keith’s betrayal take that away from me. I would reclaim my life, my happiness, and my sense of self.
Just as I was steeling myself for the long road ahead, Corwin’s tall frame filled the doorway, his warm smile a beacon of comfort. He strode over, opening his arms wide, and I submitted to the embrace, letting his warmth envelop me. For a brief moment, I allowed myself to lean into his strength, to borrow some of his calm, to let the solace et his presence soothe me
I pulled back, not ready to surrender to emotions just yet. My gaze landed on the breakfast tray, and I seized upon the distraction, using the mundane act of eating to shield myself from the turmoil still roiling inside. The clink of utensils on the plate, the taste of food on my tongue, the simple, mechanical act of nourishing my body–it was all a welcome respite from the ache in my heart.
Corwin’s deep, soothing voice filled the room as he repeated the offer, his words dripping with kindness and concem. “I was looking for apartments, and Hendrix offered that you can live in his apartment,” he said, his eyes locking onto mine, ensuring I understood the generosity of the proposal
“He never rented it out, and he’s barely been here anyway,” Corwin added, his tone implying that it was an opportunity too good to pass up. The offer hung in the air, a Efeline thrown my way, a chance to escape the memories and heartache that lingered in every corner of my space wherever the location
“Hendrix’s apartment, huh?” I said, weighing my options.
It was a tempting offer, easy rent, no hassle, and a chance to stay in a familiar neighborhood. Plus, Hendrix’s staying history meant I’d have the place to myself. But still, I hesitated, unsure if I was ready to accept such a generous offer for free.
pan
“I’ll think about it,” I mumbled stalling for time. Corwin’s expression told me he understood my reservations, but his nod encouraged me to keep an open mind.
“They’re here?” I asked him, my voice tinged with a hint of surprise. And he arched a brow, his expression a subtle quizzing of obvious, before releasing a deep sigh
“Hendrix was busy, so he was only going to make it for the reception,” he explained, “but Deckard is here. He was about to fly to Florida, then he saw your post and asked me, so he flew here instead.” He finished, his words prompting me to nod slowly, processing this unexpected turn of events.
As Corwin’s phone rang, he excused himself and Leona followed, leaving me alone with my thoughts. I robotically popped some berries into my mouth and forced myself to chew, the simple act of a testament to my determination to keep moving forward, no matter how broken I felt.
Today was supposed to be my wedding day, the start of a new life with the man I loved. But now, it was just a painful souvenir of his infidelity.
I swallowed hard, the berries feeling like dust and mud in my dry mouth. I repeated the process, earing the small portion 1 could manage, my eyes fixed on some point in front of me, my heart fixed on the resolve to get through this, to emerge stronger, no matter what. A faint knock brings me back to daylight
“Karry, if you’re done eating and you don’t mind, can I send Deckard In? Leona asked, her voice gentle but tangled with concerning curiosity. “He’s been asking to meet you,” she added.
I frowned, my mind racing with apprehension, wariness, and a dash of embarrassment. I wasn’t sure I was ready for any more people to see me like i hideous zombie, but Leona’s expectant gaze told me she wasn’t going to take no for an answer.
“Why are you asking?” I replied, a hint of defensiveness creeping into my question.
“He flew all the way here, I’m not a bitch,” I added, shrugging my shoulders.
She let out a sigh of exasperation and understanding “You know how protective Corwin is,” she said, her tone laced with a hint of amusement. “He already refused him twice,” she continued, rolling her eyes.
“Yeah, you can send him in,” I told her, my voice firm, a deliberate attempt to mask the vulnerability I felt.
