Chapter 542

Ethan's voice, tinged with regret echoed from behind, "I'm sorry... I shouldn't have gone behind your back, nor should I have kept you in the dark. My fears got the better of me." "I was afraid that once I found out those things, you'd leave without hesitation, and I'd be powerless to stop you," he confessed, "I've never wanted to hurt you, not even with a harsh word... Madelyn... I love you! The more I love you, the harder it is for me to accept the truth I uncovered. I never intended for you to leave. Those words about canceling the engagement, they were just said out of anger." His voice broke slightly, "I... I only have you! Please don't go, regardless of whether it's true or not. I don't care anymore. I just want you to stay by my side. I don't want to lose you." Ethan had lost so many people in his life; he didn't want to lose the one person he cared about the most. Ethan enveloped her in a tight embrace, his voice trembling with desperation. "Tell me it's not true, please? E