Chapter 12

Daniel’s apology came after consequences.
Not before.
He asked to meet in a mediator’s office.
I agreed only with Karen present.
He looked tired.
Unshaven.
Smaller.
“I messed up,” he said.
I waited.
“I was scared of losing you.”
Karen’s pen paused.
I said, “So you tried to make me lose myself first?”
He flinched.
“I didn’t see it that way.”
“No. You saw my career as a threat and my client as competition.”
Daniel rubbed his face.
“I thought if you became too successful, you’d leave.”
I looked at him.
“I am leaving because you tried to stop me.”
His eyes filled.
“I love you.”
“I know.”
That was the painful part.
May you like
Some people love you and still try to shrink you.
Love does not make that safe.