Chapter 8 " These past few nights , I keep waking up at midnight … " Simon's voice cracked . " I dream of you covered in blood , asking why I betrayed you … " I looked away , but the memories hit like a wave . " Just give me one last chance … " Then - boom . He yanked out a folding knife and stabbed his own thigh before I could even blink . Blood spilled fast . He winced but managed a twisted smile . " This one's for the first lash . " He raised the knife again , aiming for the other leg . " I'll pay back all ninety - nine lashes . " My eyes shot wide . I ripped off the security chain and grabbed his wrist . The blood smell hit hard , making my head spin . For a second , I didn't know if I felt hate or heartbreak - just this crushing weight in my chest . Simon clung to my leg , tears pouring down his face . He looked wrecked . " I swear I'll spend my whole life making this right … If you want my life , take it . " His blood puddled around him . That face I once loved was nothing but desperation now . I felt so drained - for a second , I almost thought about forgiving him … Then I saw her . Nancy stood in the doorway , pregnant belly out , eyes full of venom . Reality slapped me back . No matter how sweet the past felt , his betrayal was real . Once a cheater , always a cheater .