Chapter 9-3

Marley pushed out of his lap. She allowed for a moment to collect herself, turned away from him. Aiden knew her well enough by now to understand and remain silent. When she turned around, he also already knew what she was going to say. They're both so predicable to each other at this point. She held herself, shifting on the heels of her boots, "This is my ultimatum." "I know," he whispered. "You get stuck between protecting me or respecting someone else's choices, and being honest with me and I get it. But I'm saying now that honesty is more important to me no matter what. So no more lies, Aiden." She swallowed harshly. "Honesty comes first." Aiden went to reach for her hand, his eyes saddened, "I understand-" She leaned away, "Say you promise. Say you promise you understand." He rested his forearms on his thighs. His eyes locked onto hers. He took a deep breath. "I promise I understand." Marley nodded, choosing to believe him. She ha