Page 56 of Marring an Athlete

Her eyebrows rose as if she hadn’t expected him to say that. “So, it was all a lie.” She folded her arms as she studied him.

“Yes—well, no. Parts were a lie.”

“Okay. What parts?”

He dropped her gaze as he studied the sidewalk. “Anna, I. . .” How much did he tell her? Did he confess his feelings to her? Part of him wanted to. But no good would come from it. So he blew out his breath and gathered his wits.

“You know what I think it was? I think it was this place. It has a way of captivating you. Drawing you in and mesmerizing you. If I’m honest”—he dug into the sidewalk with his toe—“I’m meant to be with Daisy.”

She was quiet, so he waited a moment before he glanced over at her. She was studying him with a stony expression on her face. “So that’s it, huh? That’s what this whole trip has meant to you.” She scoffed and turned. “Good to know.”

She took a few steps forward and then turned. “I’ll gather my things and leave the love hut to you and your actual love.” She pulled off the ring and held it out. He extended his hand and she dropped it onto his palm. “This marriage is officially over.” Then she turned and left.

This time, Michael let her go. He watched as she disappeared around the building. They were done. He needed to let her move on. A relationship with him only ended in heartbreak, and her heart was one he’d never forgive himself if he broke. He loved her too much to do that.

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