Shadow Of The Past | ✔️

36| A Hearts Confession

NAOMI

I step out of the car, avoiding his gaze, and make my way into the house. Leaving the door open, I hear it close softly behind me, signaling Ace's entrance. I turn around to face him, my emotions churning.

“What was that, Ace?” I ask, my voice trembling with a mix of anger and confusion.

He just stands there, silent, anger simmering in his eyes. I wait, frustration building, until he finally sighs, the tension breaking as he speaks. “Fuck, Naomi, I did it because I love you. I couldn’t handle seeing another man touch you. I couldn’t just sit and watch.”

My heart clenches painfully. “I’ve loved you since we were sixteen,” he continues, voice raw with emotion. “I never stopped, even when I had to leave. Naomi, I don’t think you understand how much I love you. Without you, I’m just a messed-up piece of shit. I never looked at another woman because no one else could ever be you.”

His words hit me hard, each one filled with a sincerity that leaves me speechless. My heart races, my hands trembling. I can’t breathe properly, my mouth dry, tears pooling in my eyes. How can he still love me after all this time?

“I’m trying to protect you from people like Connor,” he says, breaking the silence. “If I hadn’t shown up, who knows what could’ve happened? I could’ve lost you. Even when I left, it was to protect you. I didn't want my mess to drag you down”

I stare at him, unable to process the flood of emotions swirling within me. Finally, I whisper, “I’m sorry,” and walk past him, up the stairs. His eyes burn into my back, but I don’t look back.

In the bathroom, I stare at my reflection, mascara smudged beneath my eyes. Needing to clear my head, I go through my night routine—removing makeup, showering, skincare—but his words echo relentlessly.

Sleep is impossible. Every time I close my eyes, I hear him say, “I love you.” It’s early morning, and I’ve been sitting with my head in my hands for an hour. Amara sleeps peacefully beside me, oblivious to my turmoil.

~~

“What’s wrong?” she asks, concern lacing her voice.

“Nothing,” I lie, turning to the closet to find an outfit.

“You’re lying, Mom. What’s wrong? You look like you’re going to lose it.”

“I can’t tell you,” I whisper, picking clothes.

“Why can’t you tell me?” she presses.

Turning to face her, I snap, “Because I can’t, Amara. End of conversation.” My harsh tone surprises both of us, and she flinches.

“Sorry,” she whispers, leaving the room. My heart shatters.

ACE
As I opened my bedroom door, I come face with Amara.

I follow her down the hallway, calling out, “Hey.”

She keeps walking. I quicken my pace, catching up to her.

“Hey, hey, hey,” I say, squatting in front of her. Her eyes are brimming with unshed tears. “Are you okay?” I ask, squeezing her shoulders gently.