Chapter 9
As my words fell, Michael stood frozen, his mouth opening and closing several times, unable to say a word.
Finally, he pulled out a bank card and
shoved it at me. “I’m sorry, I really know I
was wrong.”
“1
“I don’t know how else to make
you
forgive me, but please take this card–it’s my gesture of sincerity.”
The Lester family was already on the brink of bankruptcy and with Michael’s failing health, this card was probably the last of
their wealth.
I took it without a second glance, then, without sparing him another look, I linked arms with Alex and walked away, resolute.
This man had beaten me, abandoned me and hurt me. Now, he was offering everything the Lester family had left to compensate me–and I accepted it as his
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Chapter 9
due.
The next time I heard news of Michael, it
was on the front page of the domestic
news.
The once–powerful Lester family had completely vanished, reduced to nothing after a devastating fire.
According to the police investigation, it was revealed that Michael and Patricia‘ s conflict led to their downfall.
After I rejected Michael, Patricia had gone to him in tears, begging to marry him. But Michael was already disgusted with her. He not only had her kicked out but also told her that he had given all the money to me and hoped she would stay far away.
Filled with vengeful rage, Patricia set fire to the Lester Family‘ s company and the old
mansion.
Michael, who had been recovering in the mansion, perished in the flames, unable to
escape.
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Chapter 9
The law had been relentless in monitoring the situation and in the end, Patricia was caught–charged with arson and
manslaughter. Her fate was sealed: a
lifetime in prison, paying the price for the destruction she had caused.
When I first learned the truth, the
absurdity of it all struck me, but I no longer cared. The past was a distant echo, fading into irrelevance.
I slipped on my headphones, settling into the warmth of my husband Alex‘ s embrace. He held me close, his love a
steady presence, as our precious son rested peacefully in his arms.
At last, my happiness was only beginning.
(The End)
