uiet, save for the sharp commands

of the living room. "Evelyn always loved sitting there with her books. And that vase-she

them, always asking after their families and treating them like people rather than mere

ips curling into a slight smirk. This was her moment. Finally, Evely

er walked in, loosening his tie, his expression weary. B

re?" he demanded, his tone co

lightly into her hand, her cheeks flushing as if she were embarrassed. "I-I didn't want to bother you

spaces where Evelyn's cherished items once were. "

omething of hers, it must hurt. It must remind you of how things ended. I only wanted to help you mov

g the bridge of his nose. "Sophia, you can'

now how much you're hurting, even if you won't admit it. After all you loved her so much,"

genuinely concerned. Guilt clawed at him. After all, Sophia had alwa

conviction. "I won't be heartbroken over Evelyn's thi

he clasped her hands in front of her.

eah," he said, though the word felt heavy on his ton

ot any he remembers. He always considered their relationship as

And that's why he never wanted to do anything with her. He doesn't like people l

ove Evelyn. Why w

ing face? Why does his chest feel heavy thinking how th

nd she took a step closer, her voice

that you would marry me, did you mean it? Or

out of anger and frustration than any real intention. "I..." He looked a

s though she didn't want him to see her cry. "I understand. I suppose I w

she coughed again, this time co

began, his vo

ared for you, Hunter. Always. Even when I knew I didn't stand a chance. And I would never expect you to love me. I know how hard that would be

ad been by his side through everything, even when Evelyn hadn't. And looking at her now-so fragile

e to himself than to her. "M

she threw her arms around him. "Oh, Hunter! You've made me

hen patted her

rs of planning, scheming, and waiting had finally paid off. Evelyn w

r to Evelyn instead of her. She had been furious, but she'd played he

Sophia tightened her grip on him. She

s her v