The tears spill over, running down my cheeks in hot tracks. I press my hand over my mouth, trying to contain the sob building in my chest.
God, I was such an idiot.
I push back from the table, suddenly unable to sit still, and start pacing around my apartment. Energy courses through me—urgent and hopeful.
I was so convinced I knew how this story would go. So certain that being with Grant meant sacrificing my independence. That his money and his power would inevitably swallow my dreams.
But I was wrong.
The realization crystallizes into something sharp and urgent. I need to see him. Need to tell him that I understand now. That I was wrong about so many things.
That I love him.
I grab my phone, my heart hammering. I type fast, before I can overthink it.
Me:Thank you. For Athena. For understanding what I needed.
I hit send and watch the message deliver.
Then I wait.
Seconds tick by. No response. No typing indicator.
Maybe he's in a meeting. Maybe he's finally decided I'm too much work. Maybe?—
My phone buzzes.
Grant:You got the email.
Me:I did.
Grant:They're the real deal, Emma. If anyone can see what you've built, it's Chelsea Harrington.
Me:You didn't have to do this. After everything I said.
After I accused him of trying to control me. After I threw his love back in his face because I was too scared to accept it.
Grant:I wanted to. Not to fix your problem. To give you the chance to fix it yourself. That's what you needed, right?
Fresh tears spill down my cheeks.
Me:Can I come see you?
The typing indicator appears immediately. Disappears. Appears again.
Grant:Are you sure?
Me:I'm sure. I need to see you. To talk. Is now okay?
A longer pause this time. Long enough that anxiety starts creeping in. What if I pushed him away one too many times and he's finally decided to protect himself?
Then:Grant:I'm working from home today. I'll be here whenever you're ready.
Relief floods through me, so intense it's almost painful.
Me:I'm on my way.
This is it. The moment where I either prove I've learned something, or I let fear win again.
