The Divorce That Shattered His World novel Chapter 21

Steve wasn't sure how they'd ended up in this situation, but something told him that if he let her walk away now, their relationship would never recover—it might even grow colder than before.

His heart pounded like a drum in his chest, so loud he could hear it in his ears. He swallowed hard, trying to steady himself.

"Evelyn, I was drunk last night," he began, his grip tightening on the door handle. "I acted out of line, and I'm sorry. But I remember everything. I was the one who made you stay. I was the one who said I liked you."

He took a deep breath, his voice steady but vulnerable. "It's not because of what happened last night that I'm saying this. I like you, Evelyn. That's why, even when I was drunk, I couldn't let you go. And now, sober, I'm telling you—I like you. Will you stay with me?"

His heart felt like it was about to burst, a mix of hope and fear swirling inside him.

Evelyn was silent for a long moment, her ears turning bright red. Finally, she spoke, her voice soft. "Can you... step back a little?"

Steve's heart sank. He thought this was her way of rejecting him. His hand dropped from the door handle, and he took a few steps back, his head hanging low like a kicked puppy.

When Evelyn turned around, she saw him standing there, looking utterly dejected. Despite her own embarrassment, she couldn't help but laugh.

Hearing her laughter, Steve looked up, his expression a mix of confusion and hurt.

"I didn't say no," Evelyn said, her voice teasing. "Why are you acting like I just broke your heart?"

Steve's eyes lit up, but he hesitated, still unsure. "So... does that mean you're saying yes?"

Evelyn thought about the past year with Steve. He'd always been there for her—through her highs and lows, her struggles and triumphs. He'd never doubted her, even when she doubted herself.