I couldn't shake off the feeling of unease after Vivian's words. Had I been too harsh on Jake? Should I have compromised? The doubts swirled in my head like a vortex.
Downstairs, my parents' argument escalated. I heard the slam of doors, the shatter of glass. My heart ached. What happened to the happy family we once were?
I retreated to my room, seeking solace in my journal. As I wrote, tears streamed down my face. Why did love have to hurt so much?
Suddenly, my phone buzzed. A text from Jake: 'Can we talk?' My heart skipped a beat. Did I want to reopen that door?"
I hesitated, fingers hovering over the keyboard. Should I respond? What could Jake possibly say to justify his actions?
Curiosity won. I typed: 'What's left to say, Jake?'
He replied instantly: 'Meet me at the park at 5. I need to explain.'
I wavered. Part of me wanted closure; another part feared more heartache.
But something in his words resonated. Unfinished business.
I agreed to meet him.
As I got ready, my mind swirled with questions. What would he say? Would it change anything?
At 5, I arrived at the park. Jake waited on a bench, looking uncertain. We sat together, an awkward silence between us."
Jake's eyes locked onto mine, his voice laced with emotion. 'I'm sorry for what I did. I realize now that I was wrong to pressure you.'
I softened, relief washing over me. 'I appreciate your apology, Jake.'
But then his tone shifted. 'I understand if you're still hurt. But can't we move past this? I promise to never push you again.'
His words dripped with sincerity, and I felt my resolve crumbling. 'If you're not ready, I get it,' he continued. 'But I want you to know that I still care deeply for you. Can't we work through this together?'
My heart swelled. I didn't want to lose Jake. The thought of starting over with someone new terrified me.
'I don't want to lose you either,' I said, my voice barely above a whisper.
Jake's face lit up with hope. 'Really?'
I nodded, and he pulled me into a gentle hug. 'We'll go at your pace,' he whispered. 'I promise.'
But as I hugged him back, a tiny voice in my head whispered: 'Are you settling?'
YOU ARE READING
SHATTERED INNOCENCE
Storie d'amoreBook Description: In this poignant and thought-provoking novel, 18-year-old Amanda's life is turned upside down when she falls prey to the charms of Jake, a charismatic and manipulative boyfriend. As their toxic relationship unfolds, Amanda's innoce...
