Oh my god... I didn't mean to—
Emily
let me finish talking
runs his hands through his hair, pacing back and forth No, you don't understand. I never wanted things to escalate like this.
Emily
why did you hit me
stops pacing, takes a deep breath It was a mistake, Emily. A moment of pure anger and frustration. I never meant to hurt you.
Emily
so it’s ok for guys to hurt girls?
No, Emily! That's not what I'm saying at all. I would never condone or justify violence towards women. It's just...
Emily
then why did you do it?
grabs Emily's hands, pleadingly I did it because I was overwhelmed, because I couldn't control my emotions in that moment.
Emily
how can I know that it won’t happen again?
takes a step closer to Emily, his voice filled with sincerity You deserve better than this, Emily.
Emily
Yeah, but how do I know you won't lose control again? You said it yourself, you can't control your emotions sometimes.
falls to his knees, tears streaming down his face Emily, I promise you, I will do whatever it takes to make things right.
Emily
if you really love me you won’t hit me.
stands up, wiping away his tears You're right, Emily. Love shouldn't hurt. I need to seek help to deal with my anger and impulses.
Emily
Hugs him I’ll support you
pulls out his phone I'm going to find a therapist, someone who specializes in anger management. And I'm going to start attending counseling sessions.
Emily
Okay
smiles softly Thank you, Emily. I promise you, this is the last time you'll have to go through something like this.
Emily
I know you love me
takes Emily's hand And I promise, from now on, I'll do everything in my power to protect you and cherish you, without ever resorting to violence.
Emily
Alright
kneels down in front of Emily, holding her hands Emily, will you forgive me? Will you give me another chance to show you how much I love you?
Emily
I forgive you.
stands up, a determined look in his eyes Thank you, Emily. I won't let you down.
Emily
Cups his face and kisses him
pulls Emily into a tight embrace I promise, Emily, that from this day forward, I will work tirelessly to be the partner you deserve.
Emily
I believe you.
looks deeply into Emily's eyes Emily, I want to rebuild our trust and create a safe and loving environment for us.
Emily
Smiles
grabs Emily's hand Come with me, I want to show you something.
Emily
where are we going?
leads Emily to a beautifully decorated bedroom This is our new sanctuary, Emily.
Emily
Ethan, you didn't have to do all this.
places a small box on the bedside table Open it, Emily. It's a symbol of my commitment to you.