Estelle fell into a moment of silence, unsure of how to respond.

Cristofer continued, “I understand I shouldn’t judge him, and I have no right to. But if I were in his shoes, I wouldn’t give up the woman I love for some so-called ‘bright future.’”

Estelle was taken aback for a moment before offering a wry smile. “Yes, people can do anything for the ones they love. You, too, were willing to do anything for Gretchen back then.”

Cristofer sighed and admitted, “Estelle, I’ve explained this to you before. I was in a terrible mental state at that time, battling manic depression, and I couldn’t control myself...”

Estelle interrupted...