The Day I Stopped Waiting Was the Day He Started Begging novel Chapter 204

Madeline hesitated for a long time, but finally voiced the thoughts that had been weighing on her.

Some things, the longer they were dragged out, the deeper the wounds they caused.

"York is incredibly stubborn. When you constantly butt heads with him over me, it makes me feel terrible."

"Maddy..."

Hunter's chest tightened. Seeing the gentle yet distant look in her eyes, he already had a sinking feeling about what was coming.

"Hunter, ever since you came back, I've owed you a proper apology."

"I'm sorry."

Her expression was so peaceful and quiet. Even though she was sitting right next to him, Hunter felt an invisible, uncrossable chasm opening between them.

"Maddy, you don't need to apologize to me."

"You didn't do anything wrong."

"No, I did. Even though I was only ten years old."

"I never should have treated you as my only lifeline."

"I blindly assumed you were supposed to protect me."

A bitter smile touched Madeline's lips.

The memories she had buried deep inside were finally being dragged out into the light.

Back then, when Hunter had returned her to the Monroes.

She had hated him.

She had written his name countless times in her journal, smudged with her own tears.

She had blamed him. He had taken her in—why did he have to send her away?

But time was the ultimate cure.

Those memories that had once kept her awake, completely consumed by resentment, could finally be faced with a calm heart after everything she had survived.

She could see the guilt that occasionally flashed in his eyes, and she could feel him actively trying to make it up to her.

That was simply who he was.

Cultured, refined, and exceptionally polite.

He never made anyone feel uncomfortable.

He was the kind of person who could instantly read someone's emotions and adjust to maintain the perfect, comfortable distance.