Chapter 22: A Hidden Past

As they finished their meal and prepared to leave, Aurélie couldn't shake the feeling that Léon was hiding something from her. She had noticed that he seemed nervous and on edge throughout the evening, and she couldn't help but wonder what was bothering him.

As they walked out of the restaurant, Léon suddenly stopped and looked around nervously. "Aurélie, can I talk to you about something?" he asked, his voice low and serious.

Aurélie's heart skipped a beat as she wondered what Léon was going to say. "Of course, Léon," she replied, her voice calm. "What is it?"

Léon took a deep breath before speaking. "I have a past, Aurélie," he said. "A past that I'm not very proud of. I've been trying to keep it hidden, but I don't think I can keep it from you anymore."

Aurélie's curiosity was piqued. What could Léon have done that was so bad? "What is it, Léon?" she asked, her voice gentle.

Léon hesitated before speaking. "I used to be involved with some... unsavory people," he said. "People who did some very bad things. I thought I had left it all behind, but..."

Aurélie's eyes widened as she realized what Léon was saying. "You're in witness protection, aren't you?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper.

Léon's eyes locked onto hers, and he nodded slowly. "Yes, Aurélie," he said. "I'm in witness protection. And I'm afraid that my past is catching up with me."

Aurélie's mind was racing with questions and fears. What did this mean for their relationship? Was Léon in danger?

As they stood there, frozen in uncertainty, Aurélie knew that she had to make a decision. Was she willing to take the risk and be with Léon, or was she going to walk away?