CHAPTER 14: THE REDEMPTION
We went to Patricia Vance together, Michael and I, and showed her the proof of Nathan's coercion. Patricia's smile didn't last. By the time we left, she was on the phone with her client, telling her the deal was off.
Michael's truth was out.
And I chose to stay.
It wasn't an easy decision. Every time I looked at him, I remembered the lie. Every time I heard his voice, I remembered how it had all started.
But I also remembered the way he treated me.
The way he respected me.
The way he loved me.
And I realized that sometimes, people made mistakes.
Sometimes, people did things they regretted.
And sometimes, they deserved a second chance.
Michael started going to therapy. He started being more honest with everyone, not just me. He started trying to be a better person.
He still didn't know how I ended up in that desert, and I was afraid to tell him. But I was learning.
"You don't have to tell me everything," he said one night. "I just want you to know that I'm here for you. Whatever you need."
"I know."
"And I want to spend the rest of my life proving that I'm worthy of your trust."
"You already are."
"You sure?"
"I'm sure."
We kissed.
And I let myself hope.
May you like
Because sometimes, hope was all you had.
And sometimes, that was enough.
