Chapter 11

From a young age, I knew deep down that my true cards could never be shown to others. Even more so because back then, I was determined to make my own way in the world, without relying on my family.

Even Dashiell was just someone I happened to pick up along the way as I forged my own path in my career.

Later, when I fell in love and was preparing to marry Dashiell, I thought about coming clean about everything after the wedding. Unfortunately, it never happened, and I learned to keep my mouth shut.

Dashiell's expression changed several times, but in the end, he said nothing. He just reluctantly brought up the wedding again.

"Juniper, do you know? After that phone call, I had already come to terms with my own feelings. I was afraid something might happen to you, afraid you'd get hurt, and even more afraid that you'd disappear without a trace."

"When I found out you were still safe at home, I was so relieved. I also knew that this time I had truly hurt your heart.