Chapter 24 - A Woman Named Allison Came To The Gate
Months later, Clara received a call from security.
“There is a visitor.”
“Name?”
“Allison Reed.”
Clara froze.
Allison had been released early.
She stood outside the estate gate.
Clara considered refusing to see her.
Instead, she walked outside.
Allison looked different.
Older.
Tired.
No designer clothes.
No arrogance.
Just a woman carrying the consequences of her choices.
“I didn't come for money,” Allison said.
Clara remained silent.
“I don't expect forgiveness.”
“Then why are you here?”
Allison looked down.
“I wanted to see you.”
“Why?”
“Because I spent years thinking your life was something I could take.”
Clara's expression remained calm.
“You couldn't.”
“I know.”
Allison's voice broke.
“I finally know.”
Clara studied her.
“You hurt me.”
“I know.”
“You betrayed our friendship.”
“I know.”
“And you helped destroy my marriage.”
Allison nodded.
“I know.”
Clara waited.
Then she said:
“I'm glad you know.”
Allison started crying.
Clara didn't hug her.
She didn't forgive her.
She simply walked back inside.
May you like
And somehow, that was enough.
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