Chapter 7: Healing Wounds
The storm passed, leaving behind a city washed clean by the rain. But for Reina and Aiden, the tension lingered. They avoided each other for days, both too proud and too hurt to reach out first. It wasn't until a package arrived at the bookstore—a simple envelope with Reina's name in Aiden's handwriting—that the silence broke.
Inside was a note:
Reina,
I've been selfish. I've let my pain control me, and in doing so, I've hurt you—the one person who's shown me kindness when I needed it most. I don't have all the answers yet, but I know I don't want to lose you. Meet me at the park tonight if you're willing to give me another chance.
Aiden.
Reina stared at the letter, her emotions a tangle of anger, hope, and longing. She debated with herself for hours before finally deciding to go.
When she arrived, the park was bathed in the golden hues of sunset. Aiden was waiting near the fountain, a single white tulip in his hand. His face lit up when he saw her, but there was a vulnerability in his expression that made her heart ache.
"I wasn't sure you'd come," he admitted as she approached.
"I wasn't sure either," she replied honestly.
Aiden held out the tulip. "I don't deserve forgiveness, but I'm asking for it anyway. I've been so afraid of losing someone again that I've been pushing you away. I don't want to do that anymore."
Reina took the flower, her fingers brushing against his. "I can't promise it'll be easy, Aiden. But if you're willing to try, so am I."
For the first time in weeks, Aiden smiled—a real, genuine smile. And as they stood there, bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, Reina felt the cracks in her heart begin to mend.