Master of his heart (Max and Brielle) novel Chapter 1544

Aubree knew exactly why she felt the way she did. Being with Andrew for almost seven years, ever since they were barely adults, was no small feat. Now, stepping back into the dating world was intimidating, and she couldn't help but feel a bit insecure.

Would anyone really accept her as she was? The guys who knew about her past? They’d probably have a field day with it.

“You’ve been with him for seven years, and now you think you can snag a younger, richer guy?” they’d say. “Breaking up after all this time is just like getting divorced. You’re in the same league as a woman who's been married twice.” Or, “Looking for some unsuspecting guy to take you on? Poor him. Does he even know you’ve been with someone else for that long?”

These kinds of judgments always seemed to land squarely on women, which was downright unfair.

“Aubree, being with Matthew means you’ve got a bigger hill to climb, with more gossip and judgment to face," Brielle had said. "But Matthew, he’s still young. People can chalk up his interest in you to youthful whimsy. Even if it doesn’t work out, it won’t stick to him like it would to you. If you’re ready to face all that, why not try something new? Sticking with Andrew means constantly doubting yourself. It’s not just him; his whole family is against you.”

Marriage isn’t just about two people; it’s about merging two families. And the Clements family? They were all against her, especially Desiree, who never missed a chance to badmouth her.

Even if she still had feelings for Andrew, marrying into such a hostile environment would be reckless. That’s just love making you blind, and a family like that would only spell a life of misery.

Brielle suddenly crouched down, taking Aubree’s hands. “Whether it’s Matthew or someone else, I want you to take that leap. You’re a star, a big celebrity. The ones who truly cherish you will see your brilliance and appreciate you, not tear you down. If a guy only brings you down, you really need to let him go.”

Aubree looked at Brielle, a bittersweet smile crossing her face. “You and Matthew say the same thing.”

Brielle paused, then sighed. “It’s true. I’ve always believed you can’t live on love alone.”

They spent a long time together, even had dinner. But Brielle barely touched her food and ended up feeling queasy.