Kai gazed into her brown eyes, a rare sight of her crying—only twice before had he seen it: when her cat died and when her mom got sick. He didn't care about looking foolish anymore; he'd live for himself. Cupping her face, he said, "Jade, we've both messed up. If you can forgive me for being a shitty boyfriend, I forgive you for cheating. I mean it. But you don't have to play a role for me—I'd forgive you either way." Her face lit up, a final confirmation that he was staying, even if their lives were irrevocably altered. "I love you so much," she said, kissing his forehead. "You made the right choice. And don't worry—I'm happy to make your fantasies real. You'll be my good boy forever." He'd just done what few could—forgiven her despite everything.