Tune In for My "Apology"

carefully orchestrated downfall, the cyberbullying scandal, the public denouncement, Gabriel's betrayal, the expulsion, the car crash, the hostile takeover, and the crushing

traffic. My throat was raw, my eyes burning. I hadn't realized how much

tudes or feigned sympathy. Instead, he simply reached out, his thumb gently wiping away a tear

ed, his voice low. "And Gabriel Haynes, a man blinded

to bear. "He only believes in what he can see, what' s written down, what' s presented as evid

nient lie than an inconvenient truth, especially when that truth implicates someone you care for." H

w what happened to me, how everything was stolen from us. He' s impu

using Jalen's anger as a weapon against you. A six-figure settlement, and a public apology." He shook his head. "It's not about just

in. "But what choice do I have? Jalen could face criminal charge

measure of whiskey. He turned, leaning against the counte

"Another way? What a

n't like injustice. Especially when it's so clearly orchestrated." He paused, a glint in his eyes. "And I certainly don't like

ng with a desperate sliver of hope. Nothing came f

eve Aspen Watkins has built her entire 'trauma author' career on a foundation of lie

years of fighting alone, of carrying the crushing weight of public shame and

with suspicion. "Why would you

challenge. Perhaps I'm intrigued by a woman who refuses to break, even when the world is against her. Or per

only his name and a private number. "Think about it, Elle. You can continue down this path,

still stands, Elle. The money is yours, regardless of your decision regarding my proposal. Consider it a down payment on your future, whichever path you choose." He paused

s blue eyes holding mine for a final, intense moment

eclaim my life. It was a tempting proposition, one that ignited a spark of hope I hadn' t felt in years. But it was also terrifying. It me

y the lies. And I thought of myself, the resilient, ambitious girl I used to be, buried under layers of grief and shame. Dominick was ri

ttering city skyline. The night was still youn