Page 64 of The Promise Of You

I’m waiting for her to speak here, but swear to god, she doesn’t say more than the therapist Mom forced me to go to after the accident.

Finally, she breaks the silence. “Just put yourself in her shoes, and you’ll be fine.” Then she stands and goes to the back of her shop.

Looks like I’ve just been dismissed.

Back in my office, I reopen our emails. Reread them. Try to put myself in her shoes, like Cass said.

Well hell.

I’ve been one cocky dick. I need to fix this. Start from zero.

From: Justin King

To: Chloe Sullivan

Subject: Blank Slate

Chloe,

Rereading our emails, I realize I might have come off a bit cocky. Maybe even a lot cocky. And pushy.

I want you to know this was never my intention, and I’d do anything to start with a blank slate.

Justin

Two hours later, no answer. At least she didn’t tell me to get lost. I think back to the scene at the pub. To the way I talked to her. All but threw her out.

I judged her based on who her family is. But she is not her family. I ball my fists, angry at myself. How could I do this to her? I know how she feels about her family. About her parents. Christ, she told me as much in the elevator. And yet I marched in on her, judging and berating her for something she never did. Doesn’t matter that I didn’t know who she was.

She’s their victim too.

From: Justin King

To: Chloe Sullivan

Subject: Apology

Chloe,

I owe you an apology.

I want you to know I am deeply sorry for the hurt I caused you, and I’m ashamed of myself. I passed judgement based on who your family is. I, of all people, know how wrong and hurtful this must have been to you. I would do anything to take these words back if I could.

How can I ever make it right by you, Chloe?

Justin

“Just’. Bar’s getting busy and I’m headed out.”

Why is Haley leaving? What time is it?

“It’s Thursday. Girls’ Game Night. I’m late already.”

“Right. Right. At Cassandra’s, right?” Fuck. I hope they invited Chloe.

“Is everything okay?”

“Close the door.”

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