“I don’t need charity.”
“You start tapping your fingers, like you’re counting who trusts me and who would be disappointed.”
I forced a laugh. “That’s a lot to get from a cup of tea.”
She touched the sleeve of my new coat. “You look ashamed when I notice what you need.”
“I’m not ashamed.”
“Damon.”
I hated when she said my name like that. Soft, but firm enough to stop me.
“I’m fine.”
I looked away first.
“I’m not ashamed.”
Evie never chased a confession. She just left the door open and waited to see if I had the courage to walk through.
I never did.



