Chapter 17

Jacqueline's heart pounded violently. She held her breath, afraid that the quiet of the night would betray its frantic rhythm. So, was Hayden here for her? Or had Penelope also come here? Was he asking for her help because he was afraid Penelope wouldn't forgive him? She took a deep breath to force down the flurry of emotions inside her heart. In a calm and steady voice, she replied, "This isn't something you should ask me. You should ask her." She closed her eyes and suppressed the aching feeling within her. But Hayden didn't give up. "Then, what if it were you? Would you go back with the one you love?" Her breath hitched, and she felt suffocated. How could she answer that? She was the one who had let go first. She was the one who had stepped aside to make room for Penelope and him. Going back now would change nothing. It would only make everything worse. "I'm sorry. I don't think I would," Jacqueline answered. "Why?" Hayden asked shakily. She didn't open her eyes and just