Chapter 8 - THE MAN WHO WOULDN'T TAKE HER CHOICE AWAY
William offered me a place to stay.
I refused.
He offered money.
I refused.
He offered security.
I hesitated.
Then asked, “Why are you doing this?”
He looked at me.
“Because your father is dangerous.”
“So are you.”
William went still.
Then nodded.
“Yes.”
I stared.
He continued.
“I've done things I'm not proud of.”
My throat tightened.
“Then why should I trust you?”
“You shouldn't trust me just because I say you can.”
Silence.
He stepped back.
“Trust is something I have to earn.”
I looked away.
He continued.
“And if you decide you want nothing to do with me, I'll respect that.”
I studied his face.
“Even if I never marry you?”
William smiled faintly.
“Especially then.”
My eyes filled.
For the first time, a powerful man was offering me something without demanding my obedience in return.
I didn't know what to do with that.
So I did the only thing I could.
May you like
I thanked him.
And walked away.
