I've Changed

13. I forgive you

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Jae's pov

My progress took a turn. Well, I'm not too sure if there was any "progress" to begin with.

Mature already. Get yourself together.

Am I really that heartbroken?

After Ellie's comment, I'm really considering that I am.

I didn't know what was my goal with our conversation. I was simply curious about her intentions.

I deserve a hell lot worse which now, is what I'm going to receive after asking such an idiotic question.

You're too nice to me. Why?

She has been suspiciously too kind to me. I'm so accustomed to quiet treatments and retaliations that it's instinctive to assume that her behavior is odd. I've failed too many times yet she remains considerate to my ass. Hence why I asked, and regretted doing so, because how could I ever doubt her for being a genuine person.

That's why I hope to make amends by explaining my perspective to her. I also hope that she believes me, or even allows me to tell my truth first.

The double doors of the elevator open, revealing an extravagant hallway that's decorated with paneled walls and marble floors. I take my time admiring them, as well as the few doors that I walk past.

Which reminds me. I pull out my phone and double check the suite number, although I've already had it memorized from the amount of times I've stressed about forgetting it.

I look up, and coincidentally, the door stares right back at me. I walk painfully slow to the end of the hallway.

My mouth gets dry. My hands turn clammy. I freeze a meter away.

"I'm stupid," I whisper to myself. All the self doubt rushes back. The urge to turn around tempts me. "What am I doing?"

Mature already. Get yourself together.

I conjure all the guts to finally ring the doorbell. I wait what feels like an eternity before the door swings open fast.

"She's not here." I remember that aggressiveness very well.

I clear my throat, "I know."

Sofie's eyes narrow.

From what I learned after reuniting with Ellie is that I should be scared of her. Now, after a one second interaction, I'm reminded that her best friend is equally as scary. No wonder they get along.

Regardless, I don't let it intimidate me. I pretend that it doesn't.

"Then why are you here?" She crosses her arms.

"I wanted to give Ellie—" As soon as her best friend's name left my mouth, she slams the door in my face.

I release a breath, considering my options.

Do I save my life or risk it?

I ring the bell again.

"What do you want Jae?" She's furious as she opens the door. The fact that she didn't ignore my second attempt tells me that she's not as stubborn as she appears to be. From what I remember in high school, she's always looking for gossip—I'm just being delusional.

"I'm here to talk."

"Look Jae, I admire your dedication but you need to know that," With a sad look on her face, she takes a deep breath. "You did a great deal on her. She changed so much over the years. I don't think it'll work this time around."