Chapter 16 Water streamed down his face , indistinguishable from tears . His body trembled slightly , as if bearing an immense burden . He knew he was betraying his mother , betraying his family , but he could no longer deceive himself . For three days and nights , Nolan knelt before his mothers grave without food or water , completely motionless . Cemetery staff attempted to persuade him to leave , but he merely gave them a cold stare , his tone brooking no argument GET OUT ! The staff didnt dare press further and could only watch from a distance , filled with confusion and concern . Finally , on the third day , the rain stopped . Nolan slowly rose to his feet . His knees were numb from kneeling so long , but he seemed not to notice . He took one last look at his mothers gravestone and whispered , Mom , Im sorry . In this lifetime , Im going to fail you . With that , he turned and left the cemetery , his silhouette lonely and resolute . Upon returning home , Nolans first act was to cancel the engagement . Both his father and Evangeline were stunned by the news . What did you say ? His fathers voice was filled with disbelief . Cancel the engagement ? Nolan , do you realize what youre saying ? Nolans face remained expressionless , his tone cold but determined I said , cancel the engagement . Evangelines face drained of color . She clutched Nolans arm, her voice pleading Nolan , why ? Did I do something wrong ? I promise Ill never touch you without permission again . Please dont cancel our wedding … Nolan glanced at her, his tone tinged with regret This has nothing to do with that . Evangelines tears spilled over as she asked tremulously Its Aurelia , isnt it ? You still cant forget her , right ? After a moment of silence , Nolan finally nodded Yes . His fathers face turned ashen . He slammed his fist on the table , his voice filled with fury Nolan ! Have 06:52 Eternal Pledge , Where Mountains Touch Sk 9.9 % Chapter 16 you forgotten she killed your mother ? How can you still think of her ?! Nolans fists clenched tightly , his nails digging into his palms . His voice was hoarse and low I havent forgotten . Thats why I went to my mothers grave and knelt there for three days and nights . But Ive tried I truly cannot ler her go . His father exploded with rage , snatching a belt from the table and cracking it across Nolans back . You ungrateful bastard ! Im going to knock some goddamn sense into you if its the last thing I do ! The caning struck Nolan repeatedly , quickly tearing through his clothes and leaving bloody welts across his skin . Yet he remained motionless , as if immune to the pain . Forget her ! His fathers voice was nearly hysterical . Blood trickled from the corner of Nolans mouth , but his tone remained resolute No ! Forget her ! His fathers caning came down again . Nolans body shuddered slightly , but his voice stayed steady No ! Forget her ! His father struck once more . Nolans body finally gave way as he collapsed to his knees . His back was a mess of torn flesh and blood , which dripped down his body and stained the floor . Yet he still raised his head , looking determinedly at his father Im going to find her . In this life , Ill keep her by my side even if I have to tie her down . In the next life , we can go to hell together . But in this life , without her , Ill die . His fathers hand trembled violently , the caning falling to the floor . He swayed , seeming to age a decade in an instant . His voice carried absolute despair What a sin … what a terrible sin … With those words , he collapsed to the ground . Dad ! Nolan leapt up , ignoring his injuries as he rushed to support his father . His voice was panicked Call an ambulance ! Now ! Evangeline stood to the side , her face as white as paper . She watched Nolans back , her eyes filled with despair and anguish . She knew that she would never Chapter 16 again enter Nolans heart . The ambulance arrived quickly , rushing his father to the hospital . In "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" by CrushReel, the storyline unfolds as renowned photographer Jane finds herself drawn to the charismatic rookie model, Hector. Little does she know that Hector harbors a secret—he is actually the heir to a powerful business empire. As their romance blossoms, Hector grapples with concealing his true identity to capture Jane's heart. However, their love story takes a tumultuous turn when jealousy rears its ugly head, threatening to unravel the delicate balance they've built. This modern romance novel delves into themes of hidden identities, unexpected love, and the complexities of maintaining a relationship shrouded in secrecy. With its blend of sweet romance and suspenseful twists, "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" stands out for its exploration of hidden feelings and the consequences of revealing long-held secrets. For readers seeking a captivating tale that combines elements of romance, intrigue, and emotional depth, this ongoing story is available to read at CrushReel. Immerse yourself in the world of Jane and Hector as their journey unfolds against the backdrop of hidden truths and heartfelt revelations.