**A Promise Hidden in the Quiet Rain by Adrian Hale**
**02 A Legal Threat**
“There’s a charming little café just next door. It’s only a two-minute walk. Come on, Mr. Myers.” With that, Chloe pivoted on her heel and strode away, leaving Arthur standing there, feeling utterly adrift.
For a moment, Arthur remained rooted to the spot, wrestling with a swell of frustration. Despite the irritation bubbling within him, the sight of Chloe striding away with that determined air made him swallow his pride and hasten after her. He reassured himself—just explain everything clearly, and she would eventually come around.
As he entered the café, an idea struck him. He decided to go all out; he ordered every specialty coffee on the menu, thinking that if Chloe could sample them all, it would demonstrate just how much he truly cared.
“Alright, Arthur. What is it that you actually want?” Chloe’s voice cut through the air, devoid of warmth. Her tone was flat, stripped of any emotion, as if they were engaged in a business transaction rather than a conversation between two people who had once shared vows.
Arthur hesitated, his heart heavy as he looked at her. The gravity of the situation weighed on him, and he knew he had to be sincere. “Chloe, I’m really sorry.”
“Get to the point. Cut the crap.” Her words were sharp, and Arthur could feel the walls between them growing thicker.
He took a breath, forcing a small smile despite the tension. “I know I messed up before. There’s truly nothing between me and Jennifer. I just didn’t handle things well. For that, I owe you a genuine apology.”
He leaned forward, his voice dropping to a more earnest tone. “As for my mom, I’ll make sure she publicly apologizes to you. Don’t worry—within three days, you’ll see a public apology all over the internet,” he promised, his eyes searching hers for any sign of belief.
Chloe’s expression remained impassive, her skepticism evident. She wasn’t swayed by his words.
“Jennifer saved my life. Without her, I wouldn’t be here today. I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Because she saved me, she ended up facing long-term health issues. I’ve carried that guilt with me. I promised to look after her and her child, but in doing so, I neglected our family. I overlooked your feelings. And I let Robert down.” Arthur’s voice lowered, filled with regret. “Chloe, Robert is our son. It’s my duty to care for him. And as your husband, it was my responsibility to care for you.”
For a fleeting moment, Chloe’s calm demeanor flickered, a hint of vulnerability crossing her face at his heartfelt admission.
Arthur seized the opportunity, pressing on. “Chloe, I was wrong before. I see that now. Can you find it in your heart to give me another chance?”
“Hold on.” Chloe raised her hand to halt him, her expression unyielding.
“If you keep wasting time with nonsense, there’s no point in continuing this conversation.”
Just then, the server arrived, balancing an impressive array of nine coffee cups, each one distinct and enticing, filling the table with a colorful display of aromas.
Arthur maintained his composure, waiting for the server to leave before he earnestly implored, “Chloe, can’t we just sit down and have a real conversation?”

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