Chapter 11

Howard spoke with sincerity, his voice tinged with desperation.

His eyes locked onto mine, silently urging me to accept the ring.

I scoffed and shook my head. With a solemn voice, I said, "It's too late now."

"Howard, you claimed I crushed your affection that evening, but you did the exact same to me."

"If someone were to speak ill of you in my presence, I would instantly come to your defense."

"My love for you and my understanding of who you are would lead me to trust you without question."

"But what did you do?"

"When I was at my lowest and most in need of your support, you chose to publicly doubt my character and honesty."

"You inflicted the most painful wound on my heart."

"The instant you pushed me away, our relationship ended."

"What we had is now like this ring. You willingly discarded it."

"You can go now. I don't wish to see you anymore."

I then shut the door, unwilling to continue the conversation.

However, Howard remained persistent.