After the Last Tear: Rising from the Ashes of a Broken Marriage By Cassila K

Chapter 17

Alistair stormed forward, grabbing Elaine's arm and pulling her toward him. She stumbled, nearly losing her balance before Atticus Vaughn steadied her with a quick hand.

Realizing he'd almost made her fall, Alistair stopped walking but didn't release her arm, frustration flashing across his face.

Once she'd regained her footing, Elaine finally looked at him. Even seeing the apology in his eyes didn't soften her irritation one bit.

"And you are...?" Atticus finally asked, breaking the awkward tension.

Two answers came simultaneously:

"My ex-husband."

"Her husband!"

words "ex-husband"-hit Alistair like a physical blow. His jaw

had been thinking about everything— their marriage, their relationship.A marriage that had begun as a business arrangement. A relationship that had

the only woman he'd ever love, that he'd sacrifice anything for her memory. Until Vivian's accusation had forced him to face the

their marriage was exactly a straightforward transaction. He provided money and status; she helped him deal with his family's

that arrangement, convinced he could never love anyone again. But learning Elaine was leaving had

been uncertain about his feelings, seeing another man ask Elaine out—and watching her about to accept-had made everything

He loved Elaine.

talk? Please?" He stood before her, having mustered every ounce of courage he possessed, hoping to

she just pulled her hand free

finally looked up at him, her eyes were nothing like the warm gaze she'd given Jack

nothing left to talk about, Alistair.

pain spreading through him was so intense his eyes

stepped forward, determined to reach her, but suddenly