Aww Seven Exes Begged Cute Blocked novel Chapter 92

**A Promise Written on the Rusted Edge of Time by Dael Rowan Sire**

Early the next morning, the Collins family bustled about, their excitement palpable as they prepared for their ski trip. Avery, with her heart racing, felt a wave of relief wash over her when she noticed that Ethan was nowhere in sight. She pushed her suitcase toward the trunk of the family car, the cool metal feeling reassuring against her palm.

Just as she finished loading her things, her father’s voice broke the morning’s calm. “What’s this? Avery, did you leave someone’s birthday gift by the door?” His tone was a mix of surprise and curiosity.

Turning around, her gaze fell upon the familiar gift-wrapped box, and a frown creased her brow. The sight of it stirred up a whirlwind of emotions. Without hesitation, she handed the box to their housekeeper, her voice steady as she provided the Miller’s address in New York, instructing him to mail it back.

As they drove along the winding roads, her parents exchanged glances, their curiosity piqued. “What’s so special about that box?” they pressed her, their questions filling the car with an air of intrigue.

Avery felt the weight of their inquiries pressing down on her, and eventually, she could no longer keep the truth hidden. “It’s just… birthday wishes from Mr. and Mrs. Miller,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

The car fell into a contemplative silence, a moment thick with unspoken thoughts. Her father nodded thoughtfully, his expression serious. “Your mom and I have been discussing how to navigate our relationship with the Millers after everything that’s happened. You’re our daughter, and we’ll always stand by your side, no matter what. We agreed that if you wanted to sever ties with the entire Miller family, we would support that decision. Being thousands of miles away certainly makes it easier.”

Avery felt a sense of warmth swell within her at her parents’ unwavering support. “But since you’ve chosen to just distance yourself from Ethan while maintaining a civil relationship with his parents, we understand. They’ve been our friends for a long time. We appreciate that you have your own perspective and aren’t shifting blame onto innocent people.”

This was the first time since the truth had surfaced that they had sat together and discussed the situation calmly. The comfort of her parents’ understanding wrapped around her like a warm blanket, easing the tension that had built up inside her. She leaned against her mother, the anticipation of their upcoming plans lifting her spirits once more.

As the family arrived at the ski resort, the atmosphere shifted, filled with laughter and excitement. Avery, however, found herself struggling as she took her first runs down the slopes. She stumbled and fell several times, each tumble reminding her of her lack of practice. Yet, as the day wore on, she began to improve, though her legs ached fiercely by the time she descended the mountain.

Back at the hotel, she gasped in shock at the sight of her bruised and swollen knees, a stark reminder of her clumsy attempts at skiing. Panic set in as she realized she needed some medicine. She quickly searched for a nearby pharmacy, only to discover that the closest one was over thirty miles away.

He was left speechless, the weight of her anger hanging in the air. As she stepped into the elevator, he quickly followed, desperation evident in his tone. “I’m sorry!” he pleaded, his voice soft and earnest. “Please don’t be mad. I saw you get hurt while skiing, so I went to get medicine. You shouldn’t mess around with your health, okay?”

Avery wanted to laugh at the irony of it all. The scar from the car accident still marred her forehead, a constant reminder of the pain he had caused her. The gash on her arm from the chandelier was a stark four inches long, and her feet were battered and calloused from the countless high heels she had worn. She had endured all those injuries because of him, and he had never once offered a word of comfort. Now, with a minor injury that wasn’t even bleeding, he was suddenly the concerned lover.

She turned her gaze away from the bag he offered, her heart heavy with resentment. As soon as the elevator doors opened, she stepped out, leaving him behind without a backward glance.

His heart ached at her complete dismissal, but he wasn’t ready to give up. He followed her, his anxiety growing as he watched her order a cup of ice, realizing her intentions. “Avery, I bought medicine! Why won’t you accept my help? Do you have to be this stubborn with me?” His voice was tinged with frustration and concern.

Avery let out a soft laugh, her eyes glinting with determination. “Stubborn? We don’t have any relationship for me to be stubborn about. I simply don’t want anything to do with you.” The finality of her words hung in the air, a stark barrier between them that felt insurmountable.