the absolute truth...no rhymes, no embellishments

Dearest Cecilia,

the story can resume.
The one I had been planning on that evening walk.
I can become again the man who once crossed the surrey park at dusk,
in my best suit, swaggering on the promise of life.
The man who,
with the clarity of passion,
made love to you in the library.
The story can resume.
I will return.
Find you,
love you,
marry you
and live without shame.

ATONEMENT by Ian McEwan