Scoundrel With A Noble Heart (sequel of Disgraceful)

Chapter 97

Dear readers, thank you so much for your comments! They truly inspire me to keep writing. But I need to tell you all about Maggie's journey. It's not just about finding love, even though that's a big part of it. Ultimately it's about self-discovery. We'll see her navigate challenges that will help her grow as a woman. There are unexpected twists and turns along the way that will sometimes upset you. I know you've connected with Maggie, and I can't wait to share the emotional rollercoaster of her development with you. The ups and downs will be worth it, and I promise the ending will be satisfying.

Please feel free to keep sharing your thoughts and opinions. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me grow as a writer.

*****

Amidst the chaos of her thoughts, Matthew's grip on her tightened. He turned her, his calloused thumb brushed against her trembling chin, urging her to meet his gaze.

"Look at me, Maggie." he rasped, his voice rough with emotion. She couldn't tear her eyes away. The intensity in his gaze stole the air from her lungs.

"I know I screwed up," His words forced through gritted teeth. "Royally. I'm so sorry, Maggie. More than you'll ever know. I regret it with every fiber of my being. Please, believe me. I'll never, ever turn away from you again. Give me another chance. A chance to make things right. I promise you won't regret it."

The sincerity in his voice, tinged with desperation, choked Marguerite with emotion. The weight of their shared past, a foundation built on years of trust and friendship, pressed heavily against the fresh, intoxicating spark she felt for Jacob. In that moment, the familiar security of Matthew's presence, a steady hand in the storm, outweighed the alluring mystery of the unknown. Slowly but surely, the decision settled within her~a second chance for Matthew.

Though infidelity had shaken their bond, their long history remained solid, weathering a difficult storm. Matthew, though briefly captivated by Lady A, had never truly strayed. His return was both a promise and a reassurance that he would always be there, a constant rock against the unrelenting tide. While she feared that her instant connection with Jacob might be as fragile as a beautiful sandcastle, soon to be washed away by the endless waves.

Taking a deep, shuddering breath, she forced the words out. "Let's go home, Matthew."

Relief washed over Matthew's face. "Thank you, Maggie. You deserve nothing but happiness from now on."

As her fingers slipped into Matthew's grasp, a searing glance met hers from across the room. Jacob stood frozen, the raw agony in his eyes punched a hole in her chest, stealing her breath. Guilt washed over her, hot and suffocating. She tore her gaze away, unable to bear the weight of his unspoken pain.

"Goodbye, Jake," She choked out, her heart a clenched fist.

Jacob surged forward, his hand shot out, fingers brushing her arm before she flinched away.
"No, Maggie, listen to me~"

"I've made my choice, Jake. I'm going home with Matthew."

Despite her words, Jacob persisted. "Just a few words. Doesn't that seem a little light for what he's done?"

Matthew rounded on him, his face contorted in fury. He snatched Jacob's lapel. "You have no right interfering, you~"

"Enough, Matthew!" Marguerite shoved him back, her voice surprisingly strong despite the tremor that ran through her. It was time to end this. Meeting Jacob's gaze, she forced the words past her lips.
"Forgive me, Jake, if I led you on, but it's Matthew that I love."

******

As the carriage lurched forward, Marguerite fought the urge to look back. Across from her, Matthew sat rigid, his face devoid of emotion. The familiar warmth of his presence, usually a comfort, now felt like a suffocating weight. An absurd sense of hollowness gripped her as the memory of the anguished look on Jacob's face at her parting words refused to go away.