Chapter 59

Carrie

Jesse's hand in mine was an anchor of comfort as we walked together toward the eastern border. His grip was firm, as if he were afraid to let go. It was as if releasing me might shatter something fragile between us that could no longer be fixed afterward.

I stole a glance at him, catching his eyes on me. There was a mix of determination and reluctance in his gaze, a silent admission that he didn't want this moment to come. I squeezed his hand gently, trying to convey all the emotions that words couldn't capture.

"Carrie," he said softly, his voice carrying a hint of apprehension.

I turned toward him, my heart skipping a beat at the sound of my name on his lips. "Hmmm?"

His fingers tightened around mine as if he needed the physical connection to find the courage for his following words. "I love you."

A small smile tugged at my lips, mirroring his own bittersweet smile. "I love you too. You know that, right?”

He nodded, his eyes never leaving mine. I leaned in closer, my forehead