Chapter 8
“These past few nights, I keep waking up at midnight…” Simon’s voice cracked. “I dream of you covered in blood, asking why I betrayed you…”
I looked away, but the memories hit like a wave.
“Just give me one last chance…”
Then–boom. He yanked out a folding knife and stabbed his own thigh before I could even blink.
Blood spilled fast. He winced but managed a twisted smile. “This one’s for the first lash.”
He raised the knife again, aiming for the other leg. “I’ll pay back all ninety–nine lashes.”
My eyes shot wide. I ripped off the security chain and grabbed his wrist.
The blood smell hit hard, making my head spin.
For a second, I didn’t know if I felt hate or heartbreak–just this crushing weight in my chest.
Simon clung to my leg, tears pouring down his face. He looked wrecked.
“I swear I’ll spend my whole life making this right… If you want my life, take it.”
His blood puddled around him. That face I once loved was nothing but desperation now.
I felt so drained–for a second, I almost thought about forgiving him…
Then I saw her.
Nancy stood in the doorway, pregnant belly out, eyes full of venom.
Reality slapped me back.
No matter how sweet the past felt, his betrayal was real.
Once a cheater, always a cheater.
