Chapter 205

Ruby took a deep breath, lifted her eyes, and managed to stop the tears. Her voice was now calm and steady. "I don't want to see you or your family anymore. Let's just go our separate ways." It felt as if an enormous chasm had suddenly appeared between them, one that neither money nor emotions could bridge, a division that might never be mended in their lifetimes. "On behalf of myself and my family, I apologize to you and your family," Michael said, his eyes filled with sorrow. Ruby turned her face away, wiping away a tear as she spoke, "It's unnecessary. Just go." Michael's voice was probing, as if testing the waters of her heart. "If you hate me, I promise I will never come in front of you again." Ruby accepted this test and replied firmly, "Then you'd better keep your word." The man's heart raced once again. "Ruby, take care of yourself," Michael said, his eyes full of the pleading sorrow of a wounded animal. Michael left, just as Ruby had wished. But suddenly, Ruby felt all her str