Ethan stood and crossed to her, his voice firm but full of raw emotions. He cupped her face as he spoke, every word clear.
"I'll not let you do this to us. This wasn't just a one night thing, Clara, and you know it. Please don't run away again. Nine years ago, you ran before I could say what I needed to say. This time, I won't let you." He held her gaze. "Clara, I've loved you since high school. That morning, I wanted to take full responsibility, but you called it a mistake and left. I'm telling you now, as your husband, I want you, and I'm not letting go. I want this marriage. I love you. I always have, and I always will. Please… give me..us a chance."
Clara looked at him, really looked. There was no mistaking the sincerity in his eyes. But her throat tightened as tears started falling.
"Ethan… I can't. So much has happened since that night. Things you wouldn't understand. Things that have ruined me. I'm no longer the same girl"
"Then help me understand," he said softly. "Come out with me tonight. Just the two of us. Dinner, and we talk. No running this time."
He looked deeper into her eyes, kissed her once more, and whispered, "I love you, Clara. So so much."
He immediately opened the bedroom door and stepped into the hallway, leaving her staring after him, her heart caught between longing and fear.