Regretting the Wife He Threw Away

"Don't listen to what Mr. Hoffman says. Think about the children, Bryn. Kids can grow up without a father, but they can't lose their mother."

"Stewart, I'm the one who saved Ferdinand."

Stewart froze, startled.

"That night, nine years ago, I met you-and I met Ferdinand. I saved him. If it hadn't been for me, maybe Randolph wouldn't have died. Stewart, for the longest time, I thought you brought disaster into my life. But when Ferdinand told me the truth, I realized it was my own naïve kindness that night that helped create a monster..."

Stewart's eyes were bloodshot as he stared at her. "That's not how it happened. Don't believe Ferdinand, don't believe Mr. Hoffman. Bryn, you are your own person, you're the mother of two children. You have to go back to them. They need you."

"I can't go back." Briony shook her head, a faint smile on her lips. "Stewart, Ferdinand's wedding must go on as planned. Only if Ferdinand dies, only if the plan works, will our children be safe. Do you understand?"

Stewart's breath caught in his throat.

Of course he understood.

But how could he just stand by and watch Briony put herself in danger? How could he possibly let that happen?

"Stewart, do you remember what you asked me the day of the explosion?"

Stewart looked at her, a crushing ache in his chest.

"You asked me if I still blamed you."

Briony met his gaze, her eyes gentle and full of peace. "I don't blame you anymore."

Stewart's breath faltered. Tears slipped down his cheeks.

almost time. You need to

his head, voice thick with pleading. "Bryn,

voice was soft, the

you know I can't

Stewart stood there, stunned.

the moment you started down this path. Even if you end up crawling, you have to see it through. One moment of hesitation could undo everything so many have fought for. Mr. Hoffman said I was the wild card in your plan, but maybe just maybe I turned out to

I really don't make it back this time,

clenched at his sides, his tightly pressed

up; at some point, her eyes

gazed at the silent, weeping man before her

about

bet

she just wanted to hug this who had always

n the shadows.

So she did.

to the floor as Briony stepped forward, wrapping her arms

could barely reach around his

like she hugged little Mario-gently,

ve

too much we didn't know about each other. You had so many burdens, and I was always caught up in own feelings. Maybe I finally understand now-sometimes, life just isn't in our control. But I'm not like you. I don't have that kind of courage or selflessness.

her arms, Stewart's tall

six-foot-three, undone by one warm

a simple life, a happy home, his wife and

wished for

things end up like