Chapter 12

The phone buzzed persistently, displaying a name Ava had tried hard to forget – Jayden.

" Oh damn " She hissed. Couldn't he get the message that she didn't want to speak to him?

She hesitated, contemplating whether to answer, her heart racing with uncertainty. After a few deep breaths, she swiped to accept the call.

" Ava, please listen, " Jayden's voice pleaded through the line, his tone tinged with desperation.

" What do you want, Jayden? " Ava's voice was measured, a hint of resignation embedded within.

Jayden's voice wavered as he began his rehearsed apology. " I know I hurt you. I've been reflecting on my actions. I'm sorry for the pain I caused "

Ava's silence spoke volumes, but Jayden persisted. " We had something special, don't you miss it? "

" We had toxicity, Jayden, " Ava responded, her words laden with the weight of past wounds. " I can't go back to that "

Jayden's tone softened. " But I've changed. I promise things will be different this time "

" I can't keep reliving t