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But he's still going to leave me.

I know I told myself that there's no going back from the past, but instead I still hear myself whisper his name.

Keiran.

He stiffens, but he still doesn't turn my way.

"I'm sorry I doubted you," I choke out.

A part of me is already convinced this won't change anything.

But it does.

Because the next thing I know, he's suddenly standing right in front of me, his strong fingers cupping my chin as he makes me look up...so I can see the unforgiving darkness in his gaze.

"Are you saying this because I'm a lot richer now?"

Hurt lashes my heart at his words, but I tell myself I deserve such a question, and all I can do is shake my head.

"Then what exactly are you saying, Cadence?"

My heart hammers in my chest. "Just s-sorry—-"

"And that's it?"

What else does he want me to say?

"Because this is the only chance I'm giving you to tell me what you want."

My mouth dries when I realize what he's asking for.

"I won't ask you again after this."

And it's something that I've long given up on—-

Because he once told me he wasneverthe type to give second chances.

To anyone.

Agonizing fear and excruciating hope war inside of me. But as soon as I see Keiran straighten off the wall as if preparing to leave, my world threatens to crumble, and one thing becomes painstakingly clear.

I can't lose him again.

And that's when I hear myself whisper, "Please take me back."