Chapter 88: The Power Of Forgiveness

Sophia watched the city lights flicker like glass-encased stars as she stood at the window. Although the night was quiet, a storm was raging inside of her.

Jacob.

She had been plagued by his name for a long time. He was responsible for every betrayal, tear, and scar. Nevertheless, she wasn't sure whether it was still worth it to hang onto the anguish after all.

Her shoulder was caressed by a gentle hand. Alexander was silently worriedly observing her as she turned. With a soft but assured tone, he replied, "You're thinking about him."

She let out a sigh. "I can't stop thinking about what Nathan said. Jacob's history is coming up with him, he claimed. I'm not sure why, but I don't want to see him ruined, in part.

Although Alexander's jaw tensed, he remained silent. He just listened.

Sophia cast her gaze downward. "I used to have dreams of Jacob's suffering. I wanted him to know how much he hurt me. However, now... I just feel worn out. Her tone softened as she looked directly into Alexander's eyes. "Hating him won't make things better. It doesn't alter what took place.

Alexander looked at her for a long time before he spoke. "So, what are your goals?"

After hesitating, she said, "Pardon him."

The flavor of the words was unfamiliar, but somehow... correct.

Warm and firm, Alexander grabbed for her hand. "Do it if that's what you need to be free. Forgiveness, however, does not imply forgetfulness. It doesn't imply allowing him to return.

She gave a nod. "I understand. I will never again have him in my life. However, I can no longer allow him to rule my emotions. I will not let his errors control me.

She took a long breath that was lighter than any she had ever taken. She felt almost at peace for the first time in years.

Her phone buzzed before she could say anything more.

An unknown number called.

Before responding, she and Alexander looked at each other. "Hello?"

Through the line came a tremulous voice. "It's me, Sophia."

The phone made her fingers tense. Jacob.

His tone was different from anything she had ever heard. "I…,I didn't expect you to answer," he murmured. weaker. Nearly broken.

She took a deep breath. "What's the reason for your call?"

A lengthy quiet. Then,

"I need your assistance."

Sophia's heart was racing. "Why should I assist you?"

Jacob gave a quick breath. "Because I'm under threat." And I believe you may be as well.

Her face was emptied of blood.

Seeing the horror in her face, Alexander took a step closer. "What is it?"

Sophia gripped the phone more tightly.

Jacob hardly raised his voice beyond a whisper. "Sophia, they're coming for me. And they'll come get you if they can't reach me.

Sophia's fingers gripped the phone more tightly. "What do you mean?"

She had never heard Jacob's voice before, and it was ragged and filled with terror. "I'm running short of time. Sophia, I created enemies. actual ones. those who are indifferent to second opportunities.

She took a swallow. "I told you, Jacob, I forgive you, but I refuse to be dragged back into your mess."

"I understand," he sounded. "I understand. And I'm not requesting that. However, you must pay attention. These people They're not only looking for retribution. They are aware of you. They are aware of Alexander. They will use you if they are unable to utilize me.

Sophia felt a knot in her gut. "How are they even aware of me?"

Jacob gave a shaky sigh. Because I was a moron. Because I believed I was untouchable at the time. I stole money from the wrong people and brought your name down with me. They believe that you are still somehow related to me.

A shiver went through her body.

Taking the phone out of her hand, Alexander said in a tone as icy as iron. "Jacob, who are they?"

A pause. "Those you don't want as enemies," Jacob said in a whisper.

His voice carried the pressure of whatever peril he had put himself in, and Sophia could hear it. However, this was no longer simply his battle. Whether she wanted it or not, it was also hers.

Alexander had a tight hold on the phone. "If you're telling lies,"

"I'm not," Jacob interrupted. "I promise you that I wouldn't make this up, even though I know I deserve to rot in here."

Sophia's ears throbbed with her heartbeat.

After a moment of hesitation, Jacob responded, "Just be careful." You two.

The line died.

The phone was thrown upon the table by Alexander. He is in a grave situation. It does not imply that he is speaking the truth.

Sophia tried to get rid of the uneasiness that was wriggling in her tummy by rubbing her arms. "What if he is, though?"

There was a thick quiet between them.

Then there was a buzz on Alexander's phone.

A message.

from an unidentified number.

He opened it and read the contents out loud, his eyes becoming gloomy.

"You are being caught up by your history. She will also be held accountable.

Sophia's breathing became labored. "Alexander."

He tightened his jaw. "Perhaps Jacob is telling the truth after all."

The room's air became heavier.

Sophia turned to face the window once again, but this time she saw nothing but her own terror glaring back at her in place of the serene city skyline