Just as life settled, the elevator doors opened.
A familiar figure stepped out. Shockwaves ran through me.
What are you doing here? I asked, trying to sound calm. Ethan smiled, confident.
Business in New York. Though id drop by. His eyes locked onto Julian, standing beside me.
Julian Blackwood, Ethan said, his tone laced with curiosity.
We need to talk, Isabella. What is left to discuss Ethan? His smile grew wider. You know exactly what.
Julian's hand brushed mine, a subtle reassurance.
Ethan presence brought back memories id rather forget. The pain, the betrayal.His infidelity with his ex girlfriend, Sophia.
I stood tall, refusing to let him see my vulnerability. What could you possibly want to discuss Ethan? I asked coldly. Ethan's expression turned contrite. I know I hurt you, Isabella. I am sorry.
Julian's eyes narrowed. Apologies come a little late, don't they? Julian said.
Ethan gaze shifted between us. I see you moved on, Ethan said. I crossed my arms. What do you want, Ethan? He took a deep breath.
I want to explain Isabella. Sophia meant nothing, you were always the one… stop. You lost the right to explain when you chose her over me.
Ethan's eyes dropped. I deserve that. Ethan words reopened wounds, and emotions swirled. I think we have heard enough, Julian said firmly.
Ethan nodded. I understand. Isabella, can I see you privately? I hesitated. No Julian replied. Ethan eyes locked onto mine. Fine ill say it here. I regret losing you Isabella. You deserve better. My eyes welled up. Better? I repeated. Better than me, better than what we had, Ethan clarified.
Memories flooded back: laughter, tears, betrayal. Julian hand remained firmly entwined with mine. I have moved on, I said. Ethan expression turned somber. I see that, he said.
Goodbye Ethan. Ethan turned disappearing into the elevator. As the doors closed, I exhaled. Julian pulled me close. You are shaking, he whispered. Unresolved emotions, I admitted.
Tears streamed down my face. Julian held me, silently supporting. As I cried, memories and emotions poured out. The pain Ethan caused. The struggle to move on. The fear of being hurt again.
Julian's gentle whispers soothed me. You are safe Isabella. I am here. Slowly, the tears subsided. I stepped back, sniffling. Julian handed me a handkerchief. Better? I nodded
Sorry, I said.
No apologies needed. His eyes locked onto mine. You are strong Isabella. You survived him. I took a deep breath. I did. Julian guided me to his office, shutting the door. Talk to me Isabella, he encouraged.
I hesitated, then opened up.