Chapter 15

Rebecca and Morgan's unusual closeness, far exceeding that of typical friends, filled Stephan with a wave of revulsion. He was just about to ask Rebecca about Morgan's identity when her remarks hit him like a truck, throwing him into complete disarray again. He then said, "I know it's all my fault now, Rebecca. Can you please forgive me? I swear I won't repeat my past actions if you give me one more chance. I swear you'll be the only one for me moving forward. I'll never stray again." Rebecca had heard a different version of these same heartfelt assurances five years prior. Stephan had said the same things back then to win her over. Yet, the result was nothing but betrayal. Witnessing him deliver such promises in person again, she merely felt a sense of ridicule. She then retorted, "Why on earth would I trade a life of utter freedom to return to a soul-crushing marriage with you, Stephan? Why do you think I'd give a second chance to a dishonest, unreliable scumbag who goes back on