carefully orchestrated downfall, the cyberbullying scandal, the public denouncement, Gabriel's betrayal, the expulsion, the car crash, the hostile takeover, and the crushing

traffic. My throat was raw, my eyes burning. I hadn't realized how much

tudes or feigned sympathy. Instead, he simply reached out, his thumb gently wiping away a tear

ed, his voice low. "And Gabriel Haynes, a man blinded

to bear. "He only believes in what he can see, what' s written down, what' s presented as evid

nient lie than an inconvenient truth, especially when that truth implicates someone you care for." H

w what happened to me, how everything was stolen from us. He' s impu

using Jalen's anger as a weapon against you. A six-figure settlement, and a public apology." He shook his head. "It's not about just

in. "But what choice do I have? Jalen could face criminal charge

measure of whiskey. He turned, leaning against the counte

"Another way? What a

n't like injustice. Especially when it's so clearly orchestrated." He paused, a glint in his eyes. "And I certainly don't like

ng with a desperate sliver of hope. Nothing came f

eve Aspen Watkins has built her entire 'trauma author' career on a foundation of lie

years of fighting alone, of carrying the crushing weight of public shame and

with suspicion. "Why would you

challenge. Perhaps I'm intrigued by a woman who refuses to break, even when the world is against her. Or per

only his name and a private number. "Think about it, Elle. You can continue down this path,

still stands, Elle. The money is yours, regardless of your decision regarding my proposal. Consider it a down payment on your future, whichever path you choose." He paused

s blue eyes holding mine for a final, intense moment

eclaim my life. It was a tempting proposition, one that ignited a spark of hope I hadn' t felt in years. But it was also terrifying. It me

y the lies. And I thought of myself, the resilient, ambitious girl I used to be, buried under layers of grief and shame. Dominick was ri

ttering city skyline. The night was still youn