Owen’s face drained of color when my words hit him. He stayed on his knees, lost in thought for what felt like forever. His body swayed as he slowly got backup.
Reuben shielded me behind him, his eyes sharp with caution.
Owen let out a bitter laugh. He gave me a quiet, penetrating look before staggering away.
The next time I saw him was when he had abducted me. Vanessa curled into herself beside me, staring at Owen fearfully.
She bit her lip, trying to seem vulnerable, hoping it would pull some shred of compassion from him like before. But Owen’s gaze was locked on me, brimming with affection.
Vanessa forced a weak smile and asked, “Owen, what are you doing? Ms. Millar is already married—”
“Shut your mouth, you shameless bitch!” Owen shouted in fury. “Audrey and I would never have split up if it weren’t for you!”
Vanessa’s complexion went ashen.
Owen continued, “Hurry up and explain to Audrey that I only stuck around because of your illness. I haven’t done much that’s unforgivable!”
Vanessa turned toward me, saying, “He’s right. There was a time when Owen got drunk and talked about you late into the night. He loves you deeply, and I hope you two can find a way back-”
“There’s no going back. I’m already married,” I interrupted her.
Vanessa froze, the spark in her eyes dimming instantly.
“Even if you’re married, you can always get a divorce, she said. “Owen loves you so much. You can’t just break his heart. I love him, too, but all I want is for him to be happy. I was forced into being with someone back then, and I’m not worthy of him anymore…”
Tears welled up in her eyes, but Owen remained unmoved, his gaze toward her icy and unyielding.
I smiled and repeated, “My feelings for him are gone, so there’s no going back.”
Vanessa’s eyes glistened with tears, and her voice came out meekly. “Do you know how desperately Owen searched for you over these three years? How could you do this to him? Don’t you see how much you’re hurting him?”
