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CHAPTER 397
~Ella's POV~
I opened my mouth, but nothing came out.
Ares took a step closer, his presence still overwhelming, even as he smiled that heartbreaking smile. "You're my weakness, Ella. And I can't keep fighting a losing battle. I won't."
His words twisted in my chest. "You were never losing—"
"But I was," he interrupted, his voice dropping to a whisper. "I was always losing, Ella. Because in the end, it's not about who fights harder." His jaw was clenched, a flicker of something dark crossing his features. "It's about who you choose."
Tears burnt in my eyes. "I haven't chosen yet."
Ares stared at me for a long moment before shaking his head. "And that's the problem, isn't it? I never stood a chance. Maybe I had a fraction of hope… after you forgave me when I lied and Kent was out of the way, but the moment you met your mate…"
The air between us grew thick, heavy with words left unsaid.
Ares let out a slow breath and stepped back.
