Chapter 9 - The Tearful Apology
Two days after Marcus's arrest, Sadie sat in the quiet garden terrace of Gabriel's estate, watching the sunlight play upon the fountain water. She wore a simple white dress, her face peaceful for the first time in weeks.
A housekeeper ushered Mia onto the terrace. Mia walked hesitantly, holding a small wooden box, her eyes red and swollen from crying.
"Sadie... thank you for agreeing to see me," Mia whispered, standing a few feet away.
Sadie looked at her old friend quietly. "Sit down, Mia."
Mia sat on the stone bench, placing the wooden box on the table between them. "I brought back your mother's heirloom diamond. The police released it after they finished examining the setting. It belongs to you."
Sadie opened the box, looking at the bright, sparkling diamond—now freed from the dark micro-chip and the corrupted gold band.
"Why didn't you come to me first, Mia?" Sadie asked softly, her voice filled with genuine sorrow. "If Connor was threatening you, we could have fought him together."
May you like
Mia wiped a fresh tear from her cheek. "I was weak, Sadie. He made me feel like I was protecting you... but I realize now I was just being a coward. I don't expect you to forgive me, but I wanted to return what was yours."
👉 Read PART 10 to see how Sadie decided her future with Gabriel!
