Ethan nodded.
“You don’t owe me an answer.”
“You finally understand that?”
“I’m learning.”
She looked toward the city skyline, where the Carlisle tower rose above the other buildings.
Once, Ethan had believed that tower proved he could survive without needing anyone.
Now its windows reflected a life he had nearly missed because he had mistaken distance for strength and control for safety.
Harper sat beside him on the blanket.
Not close enough to promise forgiveness.
Close enough to let him keep earning it.
Noah reached between them and held one finger from each hand.
This time, Ethan did not try to control what came next.
