Page 49 of A Cowboy's Halloween

She nodded, a lump in her throat making it impossible for her to talk.

“I can’t even begin to imagine how difficult that must have been for you,” he said softly. “You’re incredibly strong to have come through such a challenging ordeal.”

Heather nodded, appreciating Jack’s understanding and support. Opening up about her past was a significant step toward healing, and Jack’s presence made it feel less daunting.

“Thank you, Jack. It means a lot to have someone like you who listens and understands.”

Their conversation was marked by a profound sense of trust and vulnerability, strengthening the connection between them. Heather’s past was a part of her, but with Jack by her side, she felt a renewed sense of hope and resilience as they prepared to face the day together at the orchard.

Jack hesitated. “Heather, there’s something I should tell you. Jessica came up to me in the parking lot last night at the orchard. She was looking for you and realized… well, she realized how much you mean to me, and she mentioned about your past…”

Heather’s eyes widened in disbelief, and her heart raced at the revelation. She hadn’t expected Jessica to share such a personal part of her life with Jack, especially without her knowledge.

“Jessica told you about...”

He nodded. “She wanted to make sure I understood what you’ve been through. She cares about you a lot, Heather.”

Upon hearing that Jessica had taken it upon herself to share her deeply personal history with Jack without her knowledge or consent, Heather’s initial reaction was not one of understanding or gratitude. Instead, a surge of emotions—shock, betrayal, and a sense of violation—washed over her like a tidal wave.

“Jack, I can’t believe she did that. It’s my past, my story to share, and she had no right to disclose it.” Her voice quivered with a mix of anger and hurt, and she felt a deep sense of violation at having her private experiences laid bare without her control.

“Heather, I’m so sorry,” he said frantically. “I didn’t know she was going to do that, and I never intended for you to feel this way. I didn’t want to keep it a secret from you, especially since it’s such an important part of your life, and I want you to know that I’m here for you, just like Jessica said.”

But before Jack could even attempt to explain or console her, Heather, overwhelmed by the emotions and the breach of trust, made a swift decision.

In a rush, Heather abruptly stood up from the table, her chair scraping against the floor. She cast one last glance at Jack, a tumultuous storm of emotions in her eyes, before turning and hurrying out of the apartment without another word.

CHAPTER23

Jack sat there, stunned and remorseful, watching Heather’s hasty departure with a heavy heart. The unexpected turn of events had left their friendship hanging in the balance, and he knew that repairing the trust he had inadvertently damaged would be a difficult and delicate task.

Her presence and unwavering support were a source of strength for him, and how had he repaid her? Maybe he shouldn’t have mentioned Jessica, but he hadn’t wanted to keep anything from her. He appreciated Heather’s willingness to trust him with her painful past, but now, he had hurt her terribly, and he felt just awful.

Jack couldn’t let Heather walk away, feeling hurt and betrayed. As he rushed out of his apartment and into the parking lot, he was determined to catch up with her and address the situation head-on. His concern for their friendship and his desire to make amends drove him forward.

“Heather, wait!” he called.

He caught up to her just as she was about to get into her car, his breath slightly labored from his hurried pace. He stood in front of her, his eyes reflecting a mix of regret and genuine concern.

“Please, Heather, let’s talk about this,” he said, his tone urgent. “I never wanted to hurt you. Jessica just didn’t want you to get hurt.”

Heather looked torn, her emotions still raw from the shock of the revelation. She hesitated, her hand on the car door, and he could tell that she was torn and felt betrayed.

“Jack, I just...” she started tentatively. She lowered her head and sighed. “I need some space to process all of this.”

He nodded. “I understand, Heather. Take all the time you need, but please know that I value our friendship, and I’m truly sorry for any pain this has caused you.”

Heather just stood there, her head still lowered.

With a heavy heart, Jack recognized that their friendship was at a crossroads, and he couldn’t bear the thought of losing someone as important as Heather in his life. Determined to bridge the gap between them, he decided to open up about his own past, hoping that it might help Heather understand him better.

“Heather, I want you to know that I’ve faced my share of heartbreak too. I was in a relationship where I was cheated on, not once but twice.”

“Jack…”

“If you don’t want to hear, you can go,” he said.

“I’m sorry you went through with that.”

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