Forsaking the Years of Longing novel Chapter 64

Chapter 29

Despite everything they had been through together, despite the heart-wrenching pain of separation, despite his love being genuine and unshakable- he had still chosen betrayal.

He had chosen to hide it, believing his lies to be flawless.

In the pouring rain, Ivan slowly raised his hand and slapped himself hard across the face.

The fleeting clarity from the pain didn't stop him. Instead, he continued, punishing himself with more blows, as if in a frenzy of self-loathing.

Blood seeped from the corner of his mouth, only to be washed away by the rain.

His body swayed unsteadily before he collapsed heavily onto the ground.

Elsewhere.

Linda leaned against the window, listening to the pitter-patter of the rain. Her gaze was heavy, and the corners of her lips turned slightly downward.

Rachel looked at her but said nothing, simply placing a cup of warm milk by her side.

Linda picked it up with both hands, the warmth seeping through her palms into her cold body. She shivered involuntarily.

Staring out into the pitch-black night, she spoke softly, "Rachel, it feels like my whole life has been about losing."

"Losing my parents, my grandmother, my child... and my love."

"If I really am the heroine of a novel, then how much must the author hate me to write a story so cruel, taking everything away from me?"