The palace was oddly quiet when Jacob approached Leah's chambers. He was burdened by the consequences of his actions and his misguided doubts. Long shadows were created on the stone walls by the flickering candlelight, reflecting the uneasiness that was beginning to creep into his heart.
Leah sat by the window, staring out at the moonlit gardens. She did not turn when Jacob entered, but he knew she sensed him. He stepped forward tentatively.
"Leah," he said in a softer-than-normal voice, "I need to talk to you."
She was silent for a time, then let out a long sigh. "Then speak, Jacob."
He hesitated. He found it difficult to apologize yet Leah needed the truth from him. "I was wrong to doubt you. To doubt us. Elena used deception to fool me while my personal weakness allowed her advance toward me. I am sorry."
Leah shifted her gaze toward him as her emerald eyes showed conflicting feelings he couldn't understand. She said with no emotion in her voice "You hurt me, Jacob." Your doubt pained me twice as much because it challenged your standing at my side. This pack and you have received everything I had to give yet I suffered from feeling like I did not belong.
Guilt twisted in Jacob's chest. He crossed another step but she left her arms at her sides. "I know," he admitted. You deserve more respect than I showed you. I should have trusted you. I should have protected you."
The softened look in Leah's eyes provided a small moment of hope but her heart stayed protected. "Building trust requires meaningful efforts to fix relationships, Jacob."
He nodded. "To prove my love I am willing to take any action needed. Just tell me how."
Leah fixed her eyes on the floor and gripped her lap with locked hands. "I don't know yet. But I need time."
At heart, Jacob took her words, even though they pained him deeply. "I will devote as much time as you need to show my commitment and love. I assure you each day Leah that I continue to love you. You'll keep witnessing my constant proof of love."
With no visible emotional clues, Leah maintained her composure without dismissing Jacob from her presence. Jacob received this as his first step toward winning back Leah's trust.