The night air is heavy as you stand on the edge of Tannyhill’s property. You hear him before you see him—his footsteps crunching on the gravel. “Don’t go,” Rafe’s voice breaks as he steps into the light, his blue eyes frantic, searching yours.

You fold your arms, steeling yourself. “I’ve been giving you chances, Rafe. Every time, you promise to change, and every time…” You pause, your voice cracking. “You let me down.”

“I know.” His voice is soft, almost pleading. “I know I don’t deserve you, but you’re the only good thing in my life. You’re the only reason I’m still standing.”

Your chest tightens. You had me crawling for you, honey… and it never would’ve gone away.

“You say that now,” you whisper, shaking your head. “But you’ve said it before.”

He takes a step closer, his movements slow, careful. “I don’t know how to fix everything I’ve broken, but I’m trying. For you. For us. Just… don’t walk away from me.” His voice is raw, and for the first time, you don’t see the Rafe who’s always in control. You see the boy underneath, scared of losing you.

“You’re not sorry,” you murmur, even as the weight of his words settles over you.

“I will be,” he says, reaching for your hand. His touch is hesitant, as if he’s afraid you’ll pull away. “I’ll prove it. Just… stay.”

You hesitate, your heart warring with your head. But instead of walking away, you stay—because no matter how much he’s hurt you, you still see the man he could be.

And maybe, this time, he’ll become him.