When Two Winters Met (Henrietta and Yosef) novel Chapter 14

Seeing Henrietta still entrenched in silence, a strange fear seized Matteo - a fear of losing her completely in the next instant.

He spoke again, his words tumbling out in a rush. "Henrietta, I know that for a family like yours, reputation and composure are everything. I'm sorry. Because of my upbringing, I'm lacking in many ways. From now on, I'll listen to everything you say. I'll never embarrass you again. Whatever you want me to do, I'll do it. Whatever you want me to learn, I'll learn it."

Finally, Henrietta spoke. "Matteo, are you only saying this because you know I'm a Sargent?"

"Of course not!" Matteo denied it instantly. His eyes softened into a look of profound affection. "We've been together for nearly five years. That's not a short amount of time. We've invested all of our emotions in each other. We were each other's first love, a connection that’s etched into our souls. Other couples who have been together this long are already married with children. I know you've done so much for my career, always thinking of me, always putting me first. Even if you weren't the Sargent heiress, even if you were just Ms. Stetson's assistant, you would still be the girlfriend I deeply love, the other half I'm about to marry, my partner in my career, my companion in life, and my one true love. Henrietta, I love you. I really, really love you."

In that moment, Matteo’s words weren't entirely a lie. When people get lost in memories, their emotions can feel genuine.

But that sincerity was for the past. He had loved her once, but the betrayal was just as real.

If Henrietta hadn't overheard their conversation last night, Matteo's words might have moved her. But now, they only made her feel sick. Her eyes were cold as she asked, "Do you even believe what you're saying?"

Matteo was taken aback. "Henrietta, I'm being sincere! Haven't you seen how I've treated you all this time?"

He had always treated her well; she knew that. But at some point, it had changed, and all that kindness had become a performance. When did it change? Perhaps when he and Artina had gotten together.

Henrietta didn't want to dwell on it.

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