Franklin lifted a brow slowly, studying Evan with the kind of sharp, measured curiosity that rarely missed its mark. "You care about Nathan so much," he said, voice even but probing, "that you'd rather sacrifice whatever you feel for Cassie, just so he can have her."
Evan didn't flinch. He didn't shift his stance or avert his gaze. He simply met Franklin's eyes. "Why not?" he replied calmly. "You were nothing but cruel to her when it mattered."
The words landed harder than Evan intended. Franklin exhaled, then surprised them both by saying, "I'm sorry about that."
The apology came out abrupt, almost clumsy, as though he hadn't rehearsed it. He scrubbed a hand over his jaw, then glanced back at Evan with something close to embarrassment.
"You've really fallen for her, haven't
