The Man of My Bitterest Lesson (published on Webnovel)

Bright looked up, his tender gaze aimed at softening Emma's heart. "I've only just realized the depth of my love for you, and I can't bear to lose you."

"You're aware that I don't believe in love, aren't you? So, please don't use that as a justification," Emma responded sharply.

"Alright, then, I simply need you in my life, Emma."

Emma gritted her teeth. "So, where were you when I needed you, Your Highness?"

#secondchance #getingbacktogether #slowburn #diplomacy #kingdombuilding #enemytolover

---

(Setting: 19th Century)

Seven years had passed since Emma last saw Bright Alejandro Anderson-her first love. Emma had almost succeeded in living her life normally. She was doing fine.

But that man resurfaced in Emma's life as Prince Anderson, who led the royal legal affairs team. He not only appeared in Emma's life but also forced her to look back. To revisit memories she desperately wanted to forget.

For Emma, Bright, aka Prince Anderson, was the most bitter lesson in her life. From him, Emma learned never to trust anyone.

Not even God.

~~~

Emma's tears flowed, voice cracked and pained,
"Even if I were to die," her despair remained,
"I'll hate you forever, it's only fair,
Don't come to my funeral, don't you dare,
Set foot at my graveside, expect no embrace,
Don't ever anticipate my heart's forgiving grace,
I'll spend my days, my bones, in hatred's grip,
A love once cherished, now a sinking ship.

~~~

"I've just killed someone with my own hands. Ah, this is how deep my love for you is, Emma. I would kill for you, and you've just witnessed it with your own eyes."

...

"I'm here... don't be scared... this time I'm not leaving you, unlike before when I left you."
...

"I was stupid. I am sorry. I regret it with every breath I take. I wish there was a way to turn back time to fix the past. But despite everything I can do, I can't. So, I sincerely apologize, even though I know I don't have the right to do so."