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