Chapter 75

"I understand, Debby.”

"Does that make me less dignified?”

"Never," he guaranteed, leaning his chin on her head. "It makes you the most honest woman I've ever met in my entire life. I'm proud to be part of your life, Debby, even if everything has to end today. I will always be grateful to have had this opportunity. And I deeply regret the people who passed in your life before me, because they didn't deserve to have received anything from you. You're broken, because you've been neglected your whole life, and you didn't deserve it. But I know you will find the peace you need. I know you are going to rebuild yourself, because the queen of hearts is not the villain of this story. You don't wear a costume to do evil and don't hide behind masks to escape punishment. I believe in you and your heart, Debby. Believe in him too.

"I believe," she said, with little conviction. "I just wish people h