Chapter 15

I turned, my voice ice-cold: “Look, Hudson, you’re officially the last face I ever wanted to see in this lifetime.”

The pain hit his eyes hard. He gave this awkward nod: “Yeah… I found Noah’s note. I know I messed up beyond fixing.”

“I just… I wanted to see you. Just knowing you’re alive, that’s enough for me. How are you, Reese?”

“Without you around to destroy my life? Yeah, I’m great. I’d be even better if you never showed your face again.”

He went ghost-white. Couldn’t get a word out.

Finally, a bitter laugh: “Knew that was coming. Still had this stupid hope, you know? Like maybe… but seeing your eyes now? That’s it. I know I’ve lost you forever.”

“Won’t bug you anymore, promise. You gave up everything for me—your career, your dreams, fifteen years of your life.”

“I failed you both—you and our Noah. I’ll make it right. Go be free, Reese. I’ll always wish you happiness.”

The only trace of his presence was a damp spot where he had stood moments before, tears splashing onto the ground beneath his feet.

A week later, my account blew up with money. Then the news hit: Hudson had turned himself in. His hitman went down with him.

Days later, news came that Hudson had killed himself in prison. They found him clutching the “Angel” pendant. No one knew how he got it inside. Didn’t matter anymore.

When I heard, I touched Noah’s photo softly. My angel could finally rest in peace.