Chapter One Hundred And Thirty

Harper's POV

Gathering my thoughts, I take a deep breath and look up at him. “Josh, I want to be honest with you. I’m afraid of diving into something new while I’m still trying to understand what happened to me. I can’t promise you anything right now, but I need to take things slowly.”

I notice his expression change, the hope in his eyes dimming slightly at my words. My heart tugs at the sight, but I know I need to focus on understanding myself first.

“I get it, Harper. Take all the time you need. I’m here for you, and I’ll wait as long as it takes,” he says, a touch of self-reproach in his voice. "I know I was too forward in asking you out on a date. Gosh, what was I thinking?"

I smile gently. "Oh no, Josh, don't beat yourself up over that," I say, reaching out to him. His eyes catch sight of the ring still on my hand, and a small smile crosses his face. "You still have this," he observes softly.

I smile brightly. "Yes, I hope it will help me feel that connection with you again."

"Ok