Chapter 83

Early morning light filtered through the curtains as I sat at the kitchen table, coffee cooling beside me. My phone buzzed. I saw the name: Sebastian. My stomach fluttered. Taking a breath, I tapped the screen and called. “Hi, Sebastian,” I greeted softly. “Haley,” he answered quickly, voice steady. “I saw the news this morning. I wanted you to hear from me first.” I nodded, even though he couldn’t see me. “Thank you.” “I’m sorry I didn’t say anything sooner,” he said. “I should have spoken up when the rumors started.” “It’s okay,” I whispered, closing my eyes. “Thank you for doing it now.” “None of it was fair to you,” he continued. “I hope it’s not too late to make things right.” I swallowed. “It’s never too late. Thank you, Sebastian.” “Thank you,” I whispered again. There was a moment of silence. Then I heard it — Jordan’s voice faintly in the background. “Daddy, is Mommy okay? Did she get hurt?” His voice was small and worried. My chest tightened. I leaned in, listening. Sebastian