HIS INNOCENT SIN

CHAPTER 20

We were both exhausted from the day's activities of shopping and eating. Finally, I made my way back to our hotel room and was immediately amazed by the place we were staying in.

After a refreshing bath, I sent Zeon to the hotel's dog daycare, which Jereme graciously covered. As I glanced at myself in the mirror, I reminded myself of the importance of self-love before others. Following my skincare routine, I wearily climbed into bed. Tomorrow was Sarah's wedding, and I knew I needed to get as much sleep as possible.

Yet, amidst my fatigue, I felt an inexplicable sensation. I couldn't help but miss Michael Ledford whenever I heard someone mention New York. He was the first person who came to mind—my source of inspiration, my innocence, and my unfulfilled desires. Curiosity got the better of me, and I decided to check my old phone, wondering what it looked like on the inside or if there were countless messages from Michael. It had been two months since I attempted to escape from him, but the past had a way of ensnaring me.

As I glanced at my phone, tears welled up in my eyes as I read the messages from him. He was desperately trying to find me, expressing his desire to be with me once more. The flood of emotions left me shattered, realizing that pretending to be happy and crying while attempting to escape from him was not a healthy way to live. It wasn't right, especially considering he was soon to be married. I didn't even know if he was already married or if there were other complications. Overwhelmed by it all, I lay in bed, hoping that when I woke up, everything would somehow feel numb again.

_______________

The wedding day of my best friend had finally arrived, a day filled with joy and love as the bride and groom stood before the altar in their elegant white wedding attire. The church was abuzz with excitement, and the sound of ringing bells echoed through the air. Standing proudly beside the bride as her maid of honor, I felt a mix of emotions.

After the hour-long church ceremony, we made our way to the reception venue, where the lively party was set to begin. Although I wasn't particularly fond of loud environments, I knew I had to embrace my extroverted side and adapt to the festive atmosphere.

Amidst the celebration, a photographer approached me, eager to capture the moment. Obligingly, I posed for a few pictures with other guests, cherishing the memories being made. The party continued with dancing and laughter, and I found myself twirling on the dance floor with my best friend, relishing in the fun.

Suddenly, my arm was seized, and I turned to see Ashton standing before me, a mixture of surprise and delight evident on his face.

"Oh my goodness, Jenna! It's been so long! I never heard from you. Where have you been?" he exclaimed, attempting to speak over the booming music.

"I've been on a break, a little vacation," I replied, weaving a small lie to hide the truth that I was actually trying to heal and escape from Michael, his friend.

We walked outside the venue, finding solace in the serene night illuminated by the radiant moon and shimmering stars. With glasses of wine and champagne in hand, we settled into a quiet corner to talk.

"So, what happened?" Ashton inquired, sensing that something was amiss. And despite my attempts to convince myself otherwise, I knew I wasn't okay.

"I'm fine," I responded, my voice betraying the weight of my own lies.

"You know, so much has changed in the past two months. Michael has become increasingly aggressive, neglecting his responsibilities at the company and indulging in a string of absences and parties. As his friend, I've had to clean up after his messes," Ashton divulged, disappointment evident in his expression. It was disheartening to witness such a transformation, but I knew deep down that it was something he enjoyed.

"He's spoken to me a lot about you—his desperate search to find you and his desire to be with you," I interjected abruptly, cutting off any further words that would only exacerbate my guilt.

"I see, well, he must be happy to be with his future wife. I can't imagine that with his behavior, he can have everything he wants."

"But he wants you, Jenna. Can you forgive him?"

"I don't know..."

Can I forgive him? I don't think I can do that right away. I'm hurt, and I feel the pain of what he did to me. I hate him, but I also love him so much. I want to see him, but I'm afraid that he will mistreat me again. He's getting married, and I must accept the fact that we can never be together.

"I think I have to go now, Ashton," I said, rushing back to the venue. Suddenly, exhaustion overwhelmed me, and I informed my best friends that I needed to take a moment to rest.

"Are you okay, Jenna? Of course, you can rest. You seem really tired," one of my friends asked, concerned.

"Thank you, guys."

I hurried down the hallway toward my room, an unsettling feeling washing over me. I sensed someone following me, their presence making me increasingly uncomfortable. I picked up my pace, eventually breaking into a run. Then, out of nowhere, someone grabbed hold of me and pressed a napkin against my face. The last thing I saw were their masked faces before everything went dark.

Help!

Help me, please!

Somebody, anyone, please help me!