Page 221 of When a Soul Cries

Her shoulders slowly relaxed.

That distinction mattered to her.

I could see it.

“I need that,” she admitted quietly, her eyes dropping again. “I need to know I can do it.”

“I know.”

Silence settled between us for a few seconds.

Then I smiled.

“Now, what I personally want is a different story.”

Her eyes lifted cautiously.

I rubbed my beard before admitting, “I’d prefer you didn’t take the damn apartment.”

Her eyebrows shot up.

Then a surprised laugh escaped her. “What?”

I shrugged. “I told you. I like having y’all there.”

Her lips curved.

“I’m gonna miss Halo taking over my living room.”

“And me?” she asked before she could stop herself.

My smile widened.

“Oh, I’m definitely gonna miss you leaving your shit everywhere.”

Her mouth fell open. “I do not leave stuff everywhere.”

“You had three hair ties on my bathroom counter this morning.”

“Three hair ties is not everywhere.”

“And your shoes stay by my stairs.”

“Because I take them off at the door!”

I laughed, watching irritation and amusement fight across her face.

“See? Already arguing.”

Sol rolled her eyes, but she was smiling now.

I let the humor sit for another second before my expression became serious.

“But for real, Sol…”

Her smile slowly faded.

“I’d like to pursue you.”