Chapter 17: I still Love You

"No," she repeated, more loudly this time. "You can't erase the past with a ring and a few soft words. You left me alone in the darkest parts of my life. You chose power, pride, and control over love and honesty." Devlin’s face fell. His hand was lowered slightly. “I don’t hate you,” she added. “I just… I don’t love you anymore. And maybe the saddest part is that I’m not even sure when I stopped.” Devlin stayed in that kneeling position for another moment, clearly hoping that her answer would change. But she stood, gently closing the box containing the ring and handing it back. "You taught me what love isn't," she ventured. "And for that . . . I guess I'm grateful." She walked past him as her heart raced leaving the gazebo. The park felt cold now; the soft light of sunset was devoid of comfort. With every step, she felt unburdened but also strangely empty. The act of rejecting Devlin felt unsatisfactory. It felt like the finality of a very painful chapter. She did not look back.