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Not the “sweethearts” It was hard enough to stay strong without the endearment

She nodded “Thanks I’ her hands in her back pockets, she tried to act like her insides weren’t cru to dust

“I heard Want ?” He stepped closer, and she took one back If he touched her again, she ht crack and lose herself in his arms

“Nah, I proood”

One of his eyes twitched, and she had the distinct i off what he really wanted to say “Okay I’ll wait for you at the clubhouse”

She could do this Just had to spit it out “Look, Jig…”

He sighed and dropped his head as though he’d been expecting it

“Don’t do it, Izzy,” he said, stepping forward and sliding his palms up her arms until he cupped the balls of her shoulders “I’m sorry for my reaction in the truck earlier I was a real asshole Please don’t let it ruin this”

“This?” she asked once again, stepping away Every ti et the words out if he kept touching her “Coreed on that from the start Better to end it now, make a clean break No messiness”

No chance for you to crushmouth, she carved a little chunk out of her own heart

“Iz, you’re upset about today Rightfully so Anyone would be Let h this”

Her arhts Suddenly, exhaustion clai I don’t need you to helpelse I take care of myself Always have, alill” For the first time in her life, those words left a sour taste in her mouth Despite all her protests, she’d come to rely on him at her side