Chapter 24

Isabella woke up the following morning feeling uneasy. Her thoughts was racing, yet Xander was still sleeping next to her, his breathing calm and steady. It was difficult to remove the doubts that Emily's remarks had sown. Her emotions and mind were fighting over whether or not to truly trust Xander.

Isabella crept soundlessly out of bed and into the kitchen to make coffee. Only the faint hiss of the kettle and the soft clinking of mugs broke the morning's peaceful hum. Her mind swirled while the coffee brewed. She couldn't get rid of the idea that there was still a mystery surrounding Xander's background, that it hadn't been completely revealed.

She had just finished pouring her cup when Xander yawned and rubbed his eyes at the doorway. He said, "Good morning," and moved to give her a forehead kiss. "You get up early."

Isabella said, attempting to seem impartial, "Couldn't sleep."

Xander saw the tension and gave her a careful look. "Is Emily involved?"

Isabella, unwilling to conceal her emotions, nodded. It's simply I must know the truth about what transpired between you two. I feel like there is more, even though I know you have told me part of it.

Xander's expression tensed. He crossed his arms and leaned against the counter. It's not something I enjoy discussing.

"I understand," Isabella said. However, I must know the truth if we are to proceed. Everything.

Xander sighed deeply as he ran his fingers through his hair and looked out the window, trying to organize his thoughts. At last he said something, a low, remorseful voice.

He started by saying, "I met Emily when I was at my lowest." This was before I had anything, including money and a business. I was lost, searching for someone to blame, and furious with the world. Emily was nice and concerned about me, but I wasn't in a position to recognise that. Isabella, I used her. I'm still ashamed of the lies I told her, the infidelity I committed, and the sorrow I caused her. I ruined the affection she had for me.

As she listened quietly, Isabella's heart ached for Emily and Xander. His voice carried the weight of his shame, and she could hear the suffering. "Have you ever expressed regret?"

Xander shook his head and replied, "I tried." However, it was already too late when I realised how much I had hurt her. She had no desire to interact with me. To be honest, I didn't hold her responsible. Back then, I wasn't a good person. She said that I was deceptive and self-centred.

Isabella's fingers curled around his as she reached out and took his hand. However, you've evolved. I see that in you.

Xander said with deep emotion, "I’ve tried to change. I wish I change the hands of the clock, but I cannot. I'll have to accept the punishment of what I did to Emily for the rest of my life.

Isabella gave his hand a light squeeze. "Xander, you've changed as a man. I have faith in you.

She rarely saw the vulnerability in Xander's eyes as they met hers. Isabella, I don't deserve you. I'm not worthy of your love or forgiveness.

Isabella stepped closer and said, "You do." I see you have worked hard to improve yourself. We need to forget the past so we can move forward."

Xander's forehead was wrinkled as he gazed down at their entwined hands. "I'd like to let it go. Isabella, I want to create a future with you. However, there are moments when I think the past will always be there, just waiting to drag me back.

"We will not allow it," Isabella stated resolutely. "For that, we've come too far."

Slowly nodding, Xander's face softened as he drew her into his embrace. The calm morning provided them with a little period of tranquilly as they stood there for a while, encircled by one another.

A Historical Visit

Isabella was working in the living room later that day when someone knocked on the door. Wiping perspiration from his brow, Xander entered after having been outside cutting wood.

"Are you expecting anyone?" he said as he made his way to the door.

Isabella gave a headshake. "No."

Both of them were startled to see Emily standing there with a reserved expression when Xander opened the door. She shuffled uneasily, looking from one to the other.

Emily's voice was cold and indifferent when she continued, "I hope I'm not interrupting."

Beside Isabella, Xander stiffened, his eyes narrowing a little. "Why are you in this place?"

Emily crossed her arms across her chest and let out a deep exhale. "I came to speak. To you both.

Uncertain of what to anticipate, Isabella's heart raced. She whispered softly, "Come in," and moved aside.

The atmosphere in the cabin changed instantly when Emily walked in. She turned to them after surveying the room and feeling its rustic warmth. She started, looking at Xander, "I've been thinking a lot since I ran into you, Isabella." And I understood that I needed to get closure. For me.

Xander's posture was stiff as he crossed his arms. "What are your thoughts?"

After hesitating, Emily inhaled deeply. "Xander, I've harboured a great deal of resentment towards you. And since it was simpler to maintain my rage, I think a part of me wanted to imagine you hadn't changed. However, I can tell that you've changed as a man after seeing you with Isabella.

Although Xander's expression softened a little, he was still cautious. "I apologise for anything I caused you, Emily. I need you to know how much I regret what happened, even though I know I can't change it.

Emily nodded, emotion flitting in her eyes. "Thank you for that. Yes, I do. I'm not here to apologise, though. I came to the realisation that clinging to the past has only caused me pain, which is why I'm here. It has prevented me from finding happiness and moving on. And I no longer desire that.

Isabella's sympathy for Emily grew as she saw the conversation. She was obviously attempting to recover, but she had every right to feel the way she did.

"Forgiveness is not something I'm requesting," Xander stated quietly. "However, I hope you can find some peace."

A tiny but sincere smile came across Emily's face. "I'm working on it." And I hope the two of you can have a great relationship.

Isabella took a step forward and spoke softly. "I'm grateful, Emily. That is very significant.

Emily nodded slightly and turned to go. She stopped as she got to the door and gave Xander one last look. "Xander, look after her. Avoid repeating your mistakes.

"I will not," Xander pledged.

Emily then closed the door behind her and left the cabin. As though a burden had finally been removed, an odd silence descended upon the room.