Love's Redemption (Chris and Maddie)

Chapter 543

Chapter 543

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Once was enough for me to humble myself for love; I'm done making that mistake.

"Hayden, you seem to be forgetting something-we're enemies. I let you go a long time ago. Whoever you marry? Doesn't matter to me. I'll even send a wedding gift if you want."

I forced a smile. "No need to worry. I'm not clinging to you. When I decide to move on, I don't look back. Jace and I were together for ten years, and once I was done, I was done. With you? We barely lasted a few months."

I took a breath, feeling my voice steady out. "And let's not forget-your dad caused my parents' deaths. Sure, I don't hold that against you, but I can't act like it didn't happen. My parents would never forgive me."

"And the Drago family... they're my enemies too. Just because I haven't acted yet doesn't mean I've forgotten. I... I just..." I trailed off, my throat tight, feeling like I'd already said too much. But that ache in my chest wouldn't quit.

I added, "Look, Hayden. With everything between us, how could I still love you? So don't worry I'm not here to ruin your life. If I wanted revenge, I'd find a better way. I won't mess with your love or your marriage. I really do wish you happiness. Both of you." I looked up at the sky. "If you don't believe me, I'll swear it right here under the moon."

I raised my hand, forcing a smile even as tears slipped down my cheeks.

I caught the flicker of pain in Hayden's eyes.

completely unaffected. Did my words get to him, or... was there still something left

us?

was about to marry someone else. There couldn't be anything

thought was ridiculous, of course. He was about to marry

ever interfere with

his voice sharp.

hand fell slowly, exhaustion

frozen, until I felt someone drape a warm

didn't resist Wayne's help. He'd already sent the cab away and silently

***

was everywhere. Hayden and Yara were trending nonstop, with Yara's accomplishments plastered across the internet, turning

buried under all those headlines, there was one werd local news story-a guy had been rushed to the hospital after getting a

on it. And there he was: Bruno, the guy who'd harassed me last

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Chapter 543

someone had paid him back for me. But

was about to be married, so