The Rewritten Love: A Second Beginning (Madelyn) novel Chapter 542

Ethan's voice, tinged with regret echoed from behind, "I'm sorry... I shouldn't have gone behind your back, nor should I have kept you in the dark. My fears got the better of me."

"I was afraid that once I found out those things, you'd leave without hesitation, and I'd be powerless to stop you," he confessed, "I've never wanted to hurt you, not even with a harsh word... Madelyn... I love you! The more I love you, the harder it is for me to accept the truth I uncovered. I never intended for you to leave. Those words about canceling the engagement, they were just said out of anger."

His voice broke slightly, "I... I only have you! Please don't go, regardless of whether it's true or not. I don't care anymore. I just want you to stay by my side. I don't want to lose you."

Ethan had lost so many people in his life; he didn't want to lose the one person he cared about the most.

Ethan enveloped her in a tight embrace, his voice trembling with desperation. "Tell me it's not true, please? Even if it means lying to me." The vulnerability in his tone was palpable.

In the pitch-black room, Madelyn opened her eyes, her emotions surprisingly calm.

"Alright, Ethan. The girl in those photos isn't me. But you have to promise me one thing – from now on, no matter what transpires, you won't bottle things up. Share with me, okay?"

It was true, the person in those images wasn't her. But what she hadn't revealed was the way Zach had once pressured her into donning those intimate apparel. Back then, she could only comply with Zach's commands.

"Okay," Ethan replied.

Madelyn said, "You should take a shower and get some sleep. The smell isn't pleasant."

"Just let me hold you a little longer," Ethan requested.