In the darkened room, Leah remained still, her heart a jumble of conflicting feelings. Leah had been hit like a physical blow when it was revealed that Elena was allegedly pregnant; the wound would not heal. Doubt had been sown in the very root of their relationship, despite everything they had been through and Jacob's decision to choose her above tradition.
Jacob paced the length of their private space, his brows knitted in serious thought, his face rigid. He ran a hand through his thick hair and muttered to himself, "Something doesn't feel right about this."
When Leah did speak, it was hardly more than a whisper. "You don't trust her?"
He turned to her and stopped pacing. "No, I don't."
Leah felt a glimmer of hope try to settle in her chest, but the pain persisted. "So why do I think you're withholding something from me?"
Jacob gasped for breath with his eyes showing his inner turmoil. "Because I need proof, Leah. I must know for certain. My current reality governs me so I will not allow the past to manipulate me.
The doubt pushed against her chest so Leah made herself swallow the feeling down. "And if she is being honest?"
Jacob's fists clenched. "I will handle any responsibilities but this won't change my sentiments towards you."
A tense silence enveloped them as they both kept their secrets. Leah clung to hope even though doubt had entered her mind because she wanted to believe Jacob and find comfort in his determination.
Her voice was sorrowful as she acknowledged, "I need time." "This... it's excessive."
She turned away and shook her head when Jacob took a step towards her. She wanted distance and clarity.
Jacob's jaw tightened as the door closed behind Leah, knowing that he would do whatever it took to find out the truth. He had chosen Leah and battled for her in spite of everything, and now the past threatened to destroy all they had worked so hard to achieve.