“That’s not true.” I lean forward, resting my elbows on my knees.

“Isn’t it? I think you see your mom in my fragility. You definitely see Francine in the things I like. And I think when I told you about my relationship with Megan’s husband, you saw your father in me. I’m this all-encompassing demon you’re determined to slay. If you can love me in spite of all the things you hate about me, then you win.”

“You’re running. That’s what this is. You’re running, and you’re blaming it on me.”

She chuckles, shaking her head and slipping her fingers into her front pockets again. “I’m here. I’m not going anywhere. You’re the runner. You’re the one who will be leaving for Milwaukee. And that’s okay. I’m okay, Jake. But not in spite of you. I’m okay because of you.”

There’s a clawing need just under my skin, a need that makes my heart race. I don’t want us to end, but I don’t know what to say.

The words. The fucking words.

If I could just hand her my heart, wouldn’t that be enough? Would it have to be served with some grand explanation?

Here, Ave. Take it. It’s yours.

If it’s not I’m sorry or I love you, then what is it?

How can she look so beautiful, so resigned to what’s happened yet so confident at the same time when this is unraveling every fiber of my heart?

She smiles. It’s stunning and real. “I’m going to find them at the beach.”

“I leave in two weeks. Maybe we could …” Desperation twists and crashes around in my head like a tornado. “Have dinner or something before I leave.” I stand, slipping my hands into my pockets, mirroring her. These hands itch to touch her, but I don’t think she’s mine to touch anymore.

Rolling her lips together, she nods a half dozen times. “Maybe breakfast or lunch downstairs? We can discuss my part-time employment at your cafe. I need another job for awhile.” She shrugs. “I’m willing to swallow my pride and admit it.”

“The job is yours.”

“No.” She holds up a hand. “You interview me. Hire me only if you find my qualifications acceptable. I don’t want any coworkers thinking I got the job out of pity or because I slept with the boss.”

“It’s running a juicer and blender. Seth makes all the other food. I’m sure you’re plenty qualified.”

Her lips twist. I want to kiss them. I want to drop to my knees and beg for time to rewind.

“But…” I step closer, leaving a few inches between her bare feet and mine “…I’ll train you before I head back home.”

“Home,” she whispers, staring at our feet.