Chapter 1945

Charlie had always known—Jay was crazy about Lyra. Back then, he wanted no one but her. But Lyra was stubborn. She never bent for anyone, least of all a man. A woman like her—strong, fearless, untamed—could turn a man's love into something ugly and bitter. Jay thought he could keep her with threats. But to Lyra, that was the greatest insult. "I'll decide that for myself," Lyra declared. She walked over and slipped an arm around Charlie to help him up. Then, without so much as a glance back, she left. Behind them, Charlie heard the sharp crack of something smashing against the door. That night, they wandered the streets with no destination in mind. Charlie knew his recklessness had dragged Lyra into trouble. But she didn't blame him. She just walked beside him in silence. "I didn't mean to cause trouble... I just couldn't stand watching him push you around." Charlie tugged at her sleeve with his voice tinged with guilt. "I know," Lyra said. "This isn't your fault. I've known