Captured

Two

September 26, 2022

"Diego, hi,"

His heart clenched and leapt at the sight of Adrian.

The last time they talked, she left in tears. He believed it would be the last time he'd ever see her.

But she was here, in Gethsemane.

"Adrian," What else could he say?

Her beauty and presence silenced him.

She smiled softly, slapping him in the face with her surprising and undeserving, yet entirely Adrian warmth.

"You, um," He stammered, running his fingers through his hair, hoping his nerves would let him speak.

He had so much to say to her. So much to apologize for.

But all he could say was the truth. "You're beautiful,"

It was the Adrian-effect.

Her stunning dark eyes flashed panic, making him shake his head.

"I'm sorry, I," He sighed. "I'm already messing up, it's good to see you," He looked around and remembered where they were.

The lounge.

A few volunteers were tidying up for the knitting night.

They wouldn't be alone.

"Sit, please, can I get you anything?" He pulled out a chair and she sat, graceful and beautiful.

She shook her head. "No. I'm fine, thank you."

This was hard. This was the right thing to do. This was what God wanted her to do.

"I'm," She paused. "No. I was distraught, so hurt, I-i didn't think I could ever face you again," She confessed, her stomach turning at the guilt and shame that settled over Diego. "I want you to know that I forgive you."

Diego's heart dropped. He never thought he'd hear those words.

"A-and I'm so sorry for running away. I-i just couldn't, I couldn't breathe and I," She bit her lips as her jaw quivered, hot tears stinging her eyes.

"Adrian," He whispered, shaking his head.

This is what he did.

"Don't ever apologize for having emotions or protecting yourself. Please," It made him sick knowing that he had a hand in causing her to be this way. "I'm sorry. For everything. I'm so sorry,"

The pure regret, compassion, and gentleness in his voice broke the dam that held back her tears.

Her body shook as she sobbed.

Diego's heart was ripped open. He loved her. Always had and always would.

She'd forgiven him, but he knew she'd never trust him again.

It was the most painful consequence he was willing to endure.

He was no longer a safe place for her.

And that wrecked him.

"T-thank you," She whispered, finally composing herself.

She didn't come to cry and lose herself in front of Diego.

"Angie, could you bring Adrian a bottle of water? Spring, please." Diego called to a woman who nodded happily.

Spring, please.

"I'm sorry for crying, I don't think I knew I needed this," She confessed.

She saw him reach for her hand but clenched his fist instead.