Ashton just stared, dead silent.

My heart was racing like I was waiting for the judge to drop the hammer.

Finally, after what felt like years, he moved. Took my hand and said, "Elaine, let go."

Just like that, my heart hit rock bottom.

The shame hit me like a ton of bricks, burning hot. I'd swallowed my pride, laid it all on the line to patch things up, and still... nothing.

His mind was made up.

He loved me, but ...