Hallie's eyes widened in disbelief, her head shaking. "No way! Eli, you’re lying to me."

"We were so in love in high school."

"You promised you would marry me. If it weren't for that accident, I would have been your wife!"

"You’ve taken care of Ashley for six years, made up for her for six years. The guilt should be paid off by now."

"You came to my performance, you brought me roses—wasn't that because you couldn't let go of me?"

He was silent for a long time before answering, "No."

That single word made Hallie's pupils contract sharply, disbelief flooding her face. "What did you say?"

Elijah continued, "I...