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That is what I did to her I knew I’d hurt her, but it isn’t until this moment that I understand it in a visceral way

“You can’t forgive me,” I force out

That has to be the reason for this Lark is trying to pierce ive me a second chance, no matter what

And I do understand, and I can’t blame her, not even a little bit But the loss of her, of even the hope of her, is still crushing

“No,” she whispers, s “I think I can I think maybe I already have”

Chapter 12

Mason

My head jerks up in surprise

This tientle, hopeful

“You have?” I ask,

“I didn’t think you’d last an hour,” she says “But you did And the longer I sat here watching you wait foronto a grudge never made anyone happy, and I don’t want to be one of those bitter people who looks back on their lives and wishes I’d been brave enough to forgive the people who really ether for a moment before she continues, “You ive this a chance”

“You do?” My relief is so profound my hands shake with it

“I do,” she says with a shy grin “Still up for four ht like this?”

“I’ive me,” I say, the center of my bones still unsteady I feel like I’ve been rescued fro seconds before it collapsed

And Lark is the one who pulled me from the fire

“Then let’s start now” She crosses toit a squeeze “I have stew and rolls war by the fire And there’s sweet tea and beer in the cooler if you want it”

“I could use a beer,” I say with a laugh as she leadsbeneath the trees “Or three”

“Have four,” she says, squeezingI think you’ve earned a little buzz”

I stop at the edge of the flames, and draw her into, quieta relieved breath as I press a kiss to her hair