(Cassian)
I stared at Kiara, wondering whether I'd heard her correctly. She was still holding my hand, waiting for me to answer. I had wanted another chance with her since the moment she accepted my rejection. Hearing her say she was willing to try again meant more than I could explain.
"Are you sure?" I asked. "I want this more than anything, Kiara. But I don't want you agreeing because you feel sorry for me. I need to know it's what you want."
"It is," she answered. "I've had time to think about us since leaving Blackridge. I know you hurt me, but I also know why you did it. I want to see whether we can make things work."
I moved closer and placed my other hand over hers. She smiled, and I found myself smiling with her. There were still things we needed to discuss, including what our
