Chapter 6 My last life didn't have a moment like this , as far as I could remember . But Finn always did the same choice , choosing Madeline over me . Except that last time I didn't survive . When I woke up , everything hurt . My head was pounding , my ribs felt like they were lit on fire , and the fluorescent lights above me made it clear I was in a hospital . No one was sitting beside me . Not a single familiar face , just a doctor with a clipboard and a bored expression . He looked up . " You're awake . That's good news . " I tried to sit up , but pain shot through my side . " Careful , " he added quickly . " You've got a mild concussion and three cracked ribs . Nothing life - threatening . We'll keep you here for a few more days , just to be safe . Though if you're really itching to get out , I can clear you sooner . " " Who paid for this ? " I croaked out . He flipped a page on his chart . " Someone named Leo . Friend of yours ? Husband ? " I let out a bitter laugh . " No. Definitely not my husband . " He didn't ask any more questions after that , just scribbled something down and walked out . Silence returned . I didn't tell anyone in my family . What was the point ? They'd just worry or lecture me or both . I figured I'd lie low , recover in peace , and check myself out in three days . Leo texted me once . Just once . Leo : " Hey , just checking , when do you plan on leaving the hospital ? " I didn't answer . What was I supposed to say ? " Thanks for cleaning up after your boss again " ? I didn't care if Finn sent him or if Leo did it on his own Either way , it didn't change a damn thing But the next day , the door creaked open and I looked up . And there he was , Finn Gallagher , walking in like a ghost from my past . Sharp suit . Cold eyes . Same detached look he always wore when I needed him most . And right behind him ? Madeline . Of course . She stepped into the room like she belonged there , holding her fake concern like a badge of honor . " Oh , Jillian … " Her voice was soft , sugary , like she'd practiced it in the mirror . " I didn't realize your injuries were that serious . I feel awful . I told Finn we had to come check on you . And don't worry , Henry's safe , he's with the nanny . " I didn't answer her . I couldn't . All I could do was look at Finn Straight in the eye . The man who once held my hand at the altar , now stood across from me like I was a stranger in his world . He shifted uncomfortably , clearly not used to me staring back without flinching . Finally , he spoke " Madeline's a pianist , " he said , like that explained everything . " Her fingers are her whole career . You understand that , right ? I know you've been through a lot , but it's not like you're paralyzed . You'll recover . And the maids can help you with day - to- day stuff " My chest tightened , not from the pain , but from the sheer emptiness of his words .