Chapter 20. I Chose to Protect You!

Nolan’s POV

The boat rocked beneath us, and the water lapping against the hull echoed around us, along with the squawks of seagulls flying around, looking for their prey.

“I chose to protect you; I didn’t want to hurt you or reject you in any way. I loved you all my life, Evelyn. You have to believe that. I am not a cold-hearted asshole that you may believe me to be. Naomi was nothing compared to you.” I repeated the words, which felt heavy on my tongue, and I could only pray that she would see my genuine remorse.

“Protect me?” Evelyn scoffed and glared at me. This girl was so stubborn, but I loved everything about her. “You didn’t protect me though, did you? You shattered my world. You left me standing there on what should have been an amazing day for me. You ruined my life, and that’s why I left and fell for someone else. Someone I thought cared about and loved me for who I am.”

Evelyn’s words pierced through me like a jagged blade, and I could feel