Page 107 of The Things That Hold Us

“No?”

“Nope. He’s dated, of course, but no ones ever been right for him.” she takes another sip, “He must really like you.”

My heart beats a little faster, and I remember that look in his eyes.

“You think so?” I ask. And I know I’m being completely vulnerable, but this is his sister, not his mom.

She smiles at me, “I know so.''

She looks back at the door, as if to make sure he isn't there, then continues.

“Don’t tell him I told you this, but he’s hardly left the house since he got home. Staying locked in that room, being a gross man. But then I sent him out to buy Hazel a present, and he came home with a smile on his face.” She looks at me, “And now I know that smile was because of you.”

I feel my heart tighten.

“I didn’t know that.”

“He likes to keep things to himself, especially the dark side of him. The side that gets sad every now and then, and locks himself away for days. He hasn't done that in awhile, and I can only assume that has something to do with you.” she stops, fidgeting with her hands, “The military changed him in some ways, but he’s still the same lovable Logan I grew up with. Just a little scarred now.”

I swallow the lump in my throat, thinking back to the scar on his shoulder and the scar across his stomach. And all the little scars scattered around.

He’s lucky to be alive. He’s lucky to be here.

And I’m lucky to get to have a chance with him. I don't want to mess this up.

She watches me for a minute, then says, “He likes you, Charlie. Don’t give up on him.”

My heart tightens, and I replay that night he had the nightmare. The way he calmed down instantly.

Maybe he needs me just as much as I need him.

Chapter Twenty Three

field of marigolds

“So what did you and my sister talk about?” Logan asks after 10 minutes of driving.

“Oh not much really.”

He looks at me like he doesn't believe me, so I add, “She said you like me.”

His eyebrows shoot up and he smiles, “Did she?”

“Yeah, she did.” I smile right back.

“She’s gotta stop giving away all my secrets.” he jokes.

“I don’t think it’s much of a secret, Logan.” I laugh, picturing last night.

“Well, no, notnow.”

It still warms my heart to know that I’ve had an impact on him from day one, since that first day I saw him in my shop.

“Do you want to know one of my secrets?” I ask him.

“Absolutely.” he says, a little too quickly.

I laugh, and look out the window, suddenly embarrassed to voice this thought out loud.

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