Chapter 81: I’m not punishing you.
Anne stared at Gustave, still processing his unexpected plea. He wasn’t just asking for her forgiveness—he was asking for punishment, as if enduring some kind of consequence would ease the weight of his guilt.
His remorse was evident in the way he stood, shoulders tense, gaze lowered, waiting for her verdict. He wasn’t saying it just to appease her; he truly meant it.
But did she even want to punish him?
A sigh left her lips, and she shook her head. "I’m not punishing you. Just let this go. I’ll pretend I never heard anything."
Gustave looked up at her, his expression darkening with guilt. "I know you’re still upset with me. You won’t accept my apology. Fine. But please, tell me what I can do to make you feel better. I’ll do anything you ask."
Anne let out a short, sarcastic scoff. "Really? You say you’ll do anything I ask, but you won’t even listen when I tell you to drop this."
Gustave opened his mouth, but no words came. He stared at her, speechless.
His head lowered again. "I’m sorry," he murmured, shame thick in his voice. "I’m truly ashamed of myself."
Anne felt the last remnants of her anger waver. The sting of his earlier words still lingered, but seeing him like this—so genuinely regretful—softened something in her heart. She wouldn’t forget what he had said, but she no longer felt the need to hold on to her resentment.