Chapter 9
After five years, Edward and I found ourselves back in the United States, the streets beneath our feet blanketed with fallen sycamore leaves.
Remembering the kindness Nicholas’s parents had shown me, I felt compelled to visit Nicholas on their behalf.
Hand in hand, Edward and I made our way to the prison, carrying a bundle of fruit and daily essentials we had prepared.
Nicholas, clad in an orange prison uniform, was noticeably thinner. The once high–spirited, rich heir was gone, replaced by a face etched with weariness and hardship.
“Briella, is that really you? I never expected you to come see me!” he exclaimed, his eyes wide with surprise the moment he saw me.
His gaze drifted to our clasped hands, lingering for a few seconds before a bitter smile crossed his lips.
“You two are together now? Do you have children?”
His voice was hoarse, rough as sandpaper.
“Yes, we have a daughter. She’s three years old.”
A thin, bitter smile touched his lips.
“How have you been all these years?” I asked though the words felt foolish the moment they left my mouth.
How could anything be good in such a place?
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Chapter 9
“Good? Time here feels endless and pointless. But, I suppose it’s what I deserve.”
His gaze drifted, seemingly lost in the past. “Where’s Anya? How is she doing?”
“She…”
I hesitated, recalling the rumors that had circulated since Janelle took her.
“She faced the consequences for her actions.”
Nicholas’s body subtly shook.
He closed his eyes. After a long silence, he spoke slowly, “I’m sorry. I was blind, fooled by her appearance. I was enchanted and caused harm to the Taymor Group and so many others.”
He opened his eyes and looked directly at me.
“Briella, I’m sorry. I was too self–centered before and did so many terrible things to you.”
I nodded, offering him a small smile.
“I won’t forgive you, but it’s over now.
“The Taymor Group is still here. I’ll make sure to take good care of it.”
“Thank you, Briella!”
With that, he gave a self–deprecating laugh.
“If only I had listened to you, perhaps things would have taken a different turn. But it’s pointless to dwell on it now.”
“It’s not too late,” Edward interjected, his voice firm and unwavering.
Chapter 9
He continued, “Reflect well while you’re here, and you can begin anew once you’re free. However, my wife now holds complete authority over the Taymor Group. You’re welcome to join Taymor Group, but you’ll be
working under her direction!”
A wave of warmth washed over me, and I squeezed Edward’s hand tightly.
Nicholas’s eyes welled up, and he quickly averted his gaze.
“I brought all of this upon myself.
“Thank you for allowing me the chance to be involved with the Taymor Group once more. I don’t want to disappoint my parents again!”
Before I departed, I pushed the items I had brought toward him.
I said, “Take these, and take care of yourself.”
Nicholas nodded, his voice thick with emotion.
“Thank you. I wish you happiness as well.”
As we stepped out of the prison gates, the sun’s rays embraced me, chasing away the lingering chill.
I leaned into his embrace, my gaze drifting towards the endless blue sky.
I whispered, “How lucky I am that I didn’t lose you in this lifetime!”
Edward tightened his arm around my shoulders.
He replied, “And I am just as lucky to hold you close in this life!”
I looked at him in surprise, but he simply ruffled my hair. He said gently, “Silly girl. I failed to keep you safe in the past life, but I swear I’ll protect you in this life!”
Chapter 9
Tears streamed down the back of my hand. I stood on tiptoe and pressed my lips to his.
Thank you, Edward!
I love you, Edward!
