Chapter 23

"What do you mean by that?" Daniel asked, his voice tinged with concern.

Adrienne took a deep breath before speaking, her eyes fixed upon him. "It's been almost three years, Daniel," she began, her words measured.

"I can't help but feel like I've been using you, keeping you from pursuing your own dreams and aspirations. Your goals. I've realized how selfish I've been, and it's weighing heavily on my conscience.

You've always been there for me, unwavering in your support, never taking a single day off or even going on vacation when you were due for it. I could've insisted that you take a break, but I was selfish. And you, you always declined, never showing any desire for time off. This has started to make me uncomfortable, and that's why I'm pleading with you now, begging you to allow me to let you go."

Confusion etched across Daniel's face as he listened intently.

"Did you ever force me to stay by your side?" he questioned, his voice gentle yet firm.

"It's something I chose willing