“I know, Lucas. I’ve lived with the guilt every single day since then. I was young, stupid, and desperate to fit in with the wrong crowd. But I’ve changed, Lucas. Life has been really hard for me these past few years. I’m not here to ask for your forgiveness, but I need this job more than you can imagine. I am behind on my bills, and this opportunity is my last hope. Please, Lucas, I’m begging you—just give me a chance.”
Lucas stared at her, his heart pounding. Over the years, he had imagined this scene playing out in his head in a million different ways. But not once did he expect Ariel to be seated right in front of him in dire need of his help.