I squeeze her neck until her big brown eyes are staring into mine.
“And even if we break it all, it would still be worth it.”
She sobs once—just once—and I feel it like a punch to the gut.
Then she’s holding me like I’m the lifeline she never thought she deserved.
And I hold her like I’m never letting go.
Because I’m not.
CHAPTER 44
WILLOW
This week has been a week for revelations and experiences, and I’m still half-expecting to wake up and discover it’s all been a dream.
I feel lighter.
Freer.
Like I’ve finally unclenched something deep in my soul that I didn’t even know I was holding onto.
Thatcher. I mean,wow.
The man is unbelievably perfect.
My very own lumbersnack—as the book girlies would say.
And honestly? They’ve got a point.
He’s tall and rugged and filthy hot with those flannel shirts, calloused hands, and that quiet, devastating focus that makes my knees weak.
But it’s not just that.
He’s dedicated.
Hard-working.
Possessive in this way that doesn’t stifle me—it shields me.
And he’s honest.
Maybe that’s what floors me the most.
There’s no second-guessing with him.
He doesn’t play games, doesn’t hide behind silences or half-truths.
Whenever he catches that flicker of doubt or old fear on my face, he’s just there.
Arms open.
Voice steady.
Reassuring me with that calm, steady gaze that says I’m not going anywhere.
The two crews running the mill have gotten used to seeing me around.
