He trailed off, then shrugged again. “I think I knew it wouldn’t work, you know? We’re just not compatible that way. We have enough other kinks in common that I could ignore it for a while, and I liked you so much. I really wanted it to work.”

“I did, too.” She said it automatically, though now that the words were out, she didn’t know if they were true. “Kyle, why didn’t you just tell me?”

“I couldn’t. Hell, I could barely admit it to myself. You know what I felt when I came back that night and you were gone?”

She shook her head.

“Relief. A little guilt, a little disappointment. But mostly relief, because I didn’t have to pretend anymore.”

She blew out a shaky breath. “I’m so sorry you felt like you had to be someone you’re not.”

“It’s not your fault.”

“I wish you’d talked to me about it,” she began, then stopped when he shook his head.

“We just would’ve broken up sooner.” He sat up straight, his gaze locked on hers. “You need something I can’t give you. Believe me, I tried.”

“I know,” she said softly. “I know you did.”

“Anyway. I just wanted to say I’m sorry.”

“Thank you. I appreciate it.”

He glanced back at Cade, still leaning against the wall, watchful. “Are you happy with Cade?”

She hesitated, not wanting to add to the sadness lurking in his eyes. But he’d asked, and he deserved the truth. “Yes, I am.”

He nodded. “He likes those dark places, huh?”

“Yeah.”

“He keeps you safe?”

“He does.” Safe and warm and loved. “It’s working really well.”

“I’m glad,” he said, and it sounded as though he meant it. “You deserve someone who can give you everything you need.”

“So do you, Kyle.”

His smile was sad. “I’m trying to figure out what that is.”

“I hope you do.”

“Thanks. Well.” He stood up. “My five minutes are about up, I guess.”

“Yeah.” She stood as well and took a step toward him. “Thank you.”

“For what?”

“For braving the gauntlet over there,” she said, nodding at the trio across the room.

“Yeah, well.” He lowered his voice. “Don’t repeat it, but I’m more scared of Sadie than either Cade or Jack.”

She laughed, a little surprised that she could. “I won’t tell.”

“Thanks.” He paused for a second, then bent down and kissed her cheek. “Be well, Liv.”

“You too,” she said softly.

He gave her a last, sad smile, then turned, nodded at Cade, and walked out.

“Good riddance,” Sadie said clearly, hurrying ahead of Jack and Cade to reach Olivia first. “Are you all right?”

Olivia nodded, blinking back tears. “I’m fine. He just wanted to apologize.”

“Oh.” That knocked a little of the wind out of Sadie’s sails, though she still scowled at the empty doorway.