Chapter 15 - The Man From Aayoka’s Past Returns
Silas Mercer appeared at Aayoka’s ranch one final time.
Elias was there.
Mercer dismounted alone.
“I came to apologize.”
Aayoka remained cautious.
“For what?”
“For believing an agreement mattered more than your consent.”
She studied him.
“You knew.”
“Yes.”
“And still participated.”
“Yes.”
“Why?”
“Greed.”
The honesty surprised her.
Mercer looked toward Elias.
“I hated him because he had what I thought I deserved.”
Elias said nothing.
Mercer corrected himself.
“No. That’s wrong.”
He looked at Aayoka.
“You aren’t something anyone deserves.”
She nodded.
“Now you understand.”
Mercer left.
Aayoka did not forgive him that day.
Maybe she never would.
But his return mattered because it showed how completely the world around her had changed.
Once, men had discussed her future while she stood silently nearby.
Now even those who had wronged her had to address her directly.
That night, Elias asked:
“Do you still believe no one wanted to marry you?”
Aayoka laughed.
“I was foolish.”
“No.”
“Desperate.”
“Yes.”
She looked at him.
“And now?”
“Now I know being wanted isn’t enough.”
“What is?”
“Being respected.”
Elias nodded.
“Good answer.”
She leaned closer.
“I have another answer.”
“What?”
“Being loved.”
May you like
Then she kissed him.
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