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!"

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

entire flight to San Francisco, Alistair had been thinking about everything— their marriage, their relationship.A marriage that had begun

sacrifice anything for her memory. Until Vivian's accusation had forced

their marriage was exactly a straightforward transaction. He provided money and status;

years, he'd grown comfortable with that arrangement, convinced he could never love anyone again. But learning Elaine

seeing another man ask Elaine out—and watching

He loved Elaine.

every ounce of courage he possessed, hoping to take her

just pulled her hand

him, her eyes were nothing like the warm gaze

left to talk about, Alistair.

spreading through him was so intense his eyes began to

determined to reach her, but suddenly found Atticus standing