Chapter 76

"If what you're saying is true, Max," Carmela said, her voice quavering, "then I've been with the wrong person all along. I've been in love with someone who was a lie." She looked at Max, her eyes full of questions. "How can I trust you now?"

Max reached out to touch her hand, but Carmela pulled away.

 "I know you're angry," he said softly. "I know you have every right to be. But please, let me explain. I can prove to you that everything I'm saying is true."

Carmela felt dizzy and overwhelmed. She didn't know what to believe anymore. Max reached out and pulled her into a tight embrace. She resisted at first, but then her strength gave out and she let herself be held. She buried her face in his chest and began to sob. Her body shook with the force of her emotions.

"It's okay," Max whispered. "It's all going to be okay. Just let it out. Let it all out."

When it was due, Carmela and Max headed back home. That house was originally Max’s but after everything t