Chapter 312 Leaving is Redemption for Oneself
Sterling drove in silence, occasionally glancing at Bella through the rearview mirror. He saw the tears in her eyes, but also her strength and courage. He knew Bella was no longer the little girl who needed his protection; she had grown up.
As they drove further from The Windsor Villa, Bella's figure in the mirror became increasingly blurred. Sterling's longing surged like a tidal wave, almost overwhelming him. He wanted to ask her to stay, to tell her the truth, but he knew she might not care anymore.
Sterling had always known that Bella wanted to leave him. Rationality told him it was inevitable. He understood that his past actions had deeply hurt her, and she would never trust him again. He no longer deserved her love or trust, nor could he ask her to stay for his sake.
So, the words of plea remained unspoken. Sterling silently bore the pain and regret, filled with endless remorse.
The car stopped in front of the Whitewater Bay neighborhood. Sterling quietly helped Bella with her luggage from the trunk. His movements were gentle yet firm, as if conveying a silent promise and determination. Bella took the luggage, softly saying, "Thank you," without ever looking up at him.
Bella's gaze was distant and deep, lost in some faraway thought. Sterling knew she was trying to control her emotions, not to show too much reluctance or attachment. He also understood that to her, he might now be just a familiar stranger, someone who once brought her joy and tears, but now could only silently watch her leave.
However, Sterling hadn't given up. Taking a deep breath, he mustered the courage to say, "Bella, I know you're hurting right now, but please believe me, I will make things right. I want you to see a new me. When that time comes, I hope you'll give me a chance to start over."
Bella's body trembled slightly at his words. She looked up at Sterling, a complex emotion flashing in her eyes. But she quickly regained her composure, saying calmly, "Sterling, our issues can't be resolved with a few words. I need time to think and heal. Maybe one day I'll forgive you, but right now, I can't make any promises."
Sterling felt a wave of intense disappointment but knew he had to face reality. He nodded silently, saying, "I understand. I'll wait for you, no matter how long it takes."
Bella said nothing more, just shook her head lightly and turned to walk into the neighborhood. Sterling stood there, watching her figure fade away until she disappeared from sight.
Sterling watched Bella leave, his heart a mix of emotions. Her polite "thank you" felt like a cold blade, severing their already fragile connection. He forced a bitter smile, a reflection of his helplessness and uncertainty about the future.
"I still need to say what I have to say," he murmured, as if making a vow to himself or a final farewell to Bella. "I know you're leaving, but I want you to know, no matter where you are, no matter what difficulties you face, my phone is always on for you. I'll always be here."
"I'll always be here." The words hung in the air like a lifeline, guiding Bella through the sea of uncertainty. Sterling knew this promise wasn't just for Bella; it was his path to redemption. He wanted to make up for past mistakes and prove his sincerity through his actions.
Sterling understood she needed time to heal and accept the truth. He wouldn't push her to come back to him right away. All he could do now was wait, wait for the rose that belonged to him to bloom again in his hands.
Taking a deep breath, Sterling hid his reluctance and longing. He would let the rose he had nurtured face the storms alone, perhaps it was for the best.
Bella's heart trembled. Sterling's words, "I'll always be here," were like a key, unlocking the long-buried pain and confusion in her heart. Tears welled up in her eyes. She wanted to throw herself into his arms, to release all her emotions, to ask why he had deceived her for so many years, why he had made her endure so much pain and suffering.
Bella wanted to ask why he had orchestrated that plane crash, why her father Lucas had to die, leaving her an orphan from a once happy family. She wanted to know why he could be so resolute, yet give her a home in such a way—was it to ease his guilt and remorse?
But reason told her now was not the time.
Bella couldn't let herself break down in front of Sterling, couldn't let him see her vulnerability. So, she took a deep breath, suppressing all her emotions, and nodded before quickly turning away with her suitcase.
Her steps were unsteady, as if each one carried a heavy burden.
Bella dared not look back, afraid that one glance at Sterling's affectionate eyes would shatter all her resolve.
Bella's figure gradually disappeared from Sterling's sight, leaving only a lonely and determined silhouette. Sterling stood there, filled with endless regret and self-blame. He knew he owed her too much and needed a lifetime to make amends.
Bella gently closed the door, shutting out the world's noise and chaos. Leaning against the door, she exhaled deeply, her emotions in turmoil. Meeting Sterling again was like an unexpected storm, leaving her unprepared and unsettled.
Bella couldn't help but lift a corner of the curtain, peeking outside. In the autumn sunlight, Sterling's figure remained tall and upright, just as it had been when she first looked up at him at eight years old. His face was still strikingly handsome, as if time had left no mark on him, still so breathtaking, making her heart flutter.
Reflecting on her past with Sterling, Bella's heart was filled with complex emotions. He had once been the light of her life, illuminating her entire early years, giving her endless warmth and happiness. However, those beautiful memories had now become her deepest pain, making her afraid to touch them lightly.
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