Chapter 39

Her gaze meets mine, and the intensity in them makes my heart race. “I thought…” she says. “I thought we could just enjoy this. But you’re right. It is more.” “More?” “Yeah, more. But I’m scared.” “Scared of what?” I ask, brushing my thumb over her cheekbone. “Of feeling too much? Of getting hurt?” “Of it all. I’ve been through so much.” I nod, absorbing her words. I can see the pain lurking just beneath the surface, a shadow that threatens to swallow her whole if she lets it. “Julie, I get that. But you’re not alone in this. I’m here, and I’m not going anywhere. We can take it slow, figure it out together.” “You really mean that?” “Absolutely,” I promise, meaning every word. “But I need you to trust me.” Her breath hitches, and I can feel the weight of the moment hanging between us. “Okay,” she says. “I’ll try.” “Good.” I lean in, brushing my lips against her forehead. “That’s all I ask.” We settle into a comfortable silence. I feel her heartbeat steadying against my chest, and it cal