Kale’s POV

He came back just like I knew he would. Some people try to walk away from what they started here. They say it hurts too much or that they changed their mind. But not him. Jethro walked into Ink Sanctum like the decision had already been made days ago.

“Morning,” I said, looking up from the counter.

He nodded. “Are you free?”

“For you? Always.” I meant it as a joke, but the way he froze made me wish I’d said it softer.

I led him to the back room, to the same chair as before. The light hit him differently today, brighter, clearer. Maybe because he wasn’t...