Ethan was speechless momentarily. Since their teenage years, he had noticed Ava following Dylan crazily and eventually married him. Yet now, she was determined to leave it all behind.
Ethan said nothing, his mind racing. He had suspected their strained relationship but hadn't anticipated things had turned this serious between them. He searched her eyes, looking for any sign of hesitation, but Ava's gaze was resolute, her decision final. She wasn't the same woman who had clung to Dylan. This was a new Ava—stronger, determined, and no longer willing to endure the pain.
"I don't know what happened between you two, but I'll always support you," he said, trying to comfort her. "And about this attack—those responsible need to be punished. I'll handle it."
Ava's response was swift and firm. "No, Ethan," she said, cutting him off sharply. "I don't want Dylan to come after you. He is ruthless when he thinks someone is against him, and I can't let you get hurt."
