Chapter 8 - The Desperate Plea
Two years passed. Evelyn’s life in Paris had flourished into something beautiful beyond her wild expectations. Her work was celebrated across Europe, and her relationship with Gabriel had grown into a deep, passionate, and loving partnership built on mutual respect.
One morning, while sitting in her executive office overlooking the Eiffel Tower, her assistant informed her of an international call from the United States.
It was Arthur Pendelton.
"Evelyn," Arthur said, his voice tired. "I’m sorry to bother you after all this time."
"It’s fine, Arthur," Evelyn said calmly. "How are things in Chicago?"
"Grant is completely broken, Evelyn," Arthur confessed. "After the bankruptcy, he couldn't get a job in real estate anywhere in the Midwest. He's working as an entry-level clerk in a car lot. His mother had to sell her house to pay off debts and is living in a tiny studio apartment. Paige works two shifts at a diner."
Evelyn listened without malice, but without pity either. Actions had consequences.
"Why are you calling me, Arthur?"
"Grant found out you're getting married to Gabriel Moreau," Arthur admitted quietly. "He tried to contact your legal team in Chicago to send you a letter. He wanted to apologize. He wanted to ask if there was any chance you could ever forgive him."
Evelyn looked out the window at the sunny Paris sky.
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"Tell him I forgive him," Evelyn said clearly. "Not because he deserves it, but because I am so happy in my life that I no longer have room in my heart to carry any anger toward him. But tell him never to contact me again."
She gently hung up the phone.
