Jason pov
Jarl's voice echoed in my head, a constant reminder of the pain I'd caused. "Why do you always end up hurting her?" he asked, but the answer eluded me, slipping through my grasp like smoke. I shut him out, unwilling to wade through the guilt that threatened to drown me.
Norella's tears had felt like chains, binding me with accusations of emotional blackmail. Yet, two days had passed, and she seemed to thrive, living with a zest that both pained and pleased me. I wanted her happiness above all, providing her with every luxury while keeping my heart guarded.
Lost in these thoughts, I waited for Damon's return. His call had been brief, but the anticipation of his news kept me on edge. The sound of his car was the signal I needed, and I prepared myself for whatever he had to say.
