Chapter 14

CHAPTER 14

L uca

I only just make it back to the house before I start crying. Every time Jackson sees a new part of me I'd rather keep hidden, he doesn't shy away, he steps up. His hug instantly felt like home, like I wanted to crawl into his arms and stay there. He felt like a protective bear, and his kindness makes my heart break. He deserves a whole person, not the shattered ghost of a thing that I am. There's a part of me that wants to tell him everything—the whole lot—but then I imagine the disgust that will come over his face, and I can't bear that he might look at me like that.

But how could anyone not, for what I am? No, I can't tell him—ever.

I don't want to face him again. I feel too raw and exposed. I leave a "sorry" note on the kitchen counter for him to find and head up to my room. I need some time alone right now.