Forbidden Love

It pained me to say it, but it was true.

She put her hand on her hip. “So you don’t love me anymore, is that it?”

I love you like a drug.

When I didn’t answer, her face fell to the floor.

Looking back up, her eyes spilled over with tears. “You coward! I thought we were it… you… me.”

I did too. I really did.

“I’m sorry, Lourde.”

“Go. Get out!” she yelled.

“Lourde, please…” I reached out for her, but she stepped away.

“I’m a fool. I am a goddamn fool for ever wanting you, Barrett. You’re the worst thing that’s ever happened to me.”

Her eyes widened with hate, reaching for the counter to steady herself as her hand trembled.

She’d delivered the knockout punch, and I was down for the count. I didn’t care about my company or my reputation. I just let the one thing that mattered most in my life go—and all because I loved her.

“I know. I always told you I’m an asshole. Goodbye, Lourde.”

A stake pierced my heart, and I was bleeding out. That’s what it felt like when I rode down the elevator and away from love.