"Natasha, can we talk?" I looked up from my coffee and froze. Derrick stood by the table, appearing calm but his eyes gave away his caution, holding two cups in his hands. My first instinct was to shut down, to walk away. I didn't want confrontation. Not today."I don't think that's a good idea," I said cautiously, keeping my voice steady."I promise, I'm not here to fight," he said, setting the tray down on the table. "Just… talk. Please."I studied him for a long moment. His eyes were honest, open. There was no anger, no hidden motives, just an honest plea. I nodded slowly. "Fine. One conversation."He sat across from me, placing a cup of coffee in front of me and one for himself. "I wanted to say this first," he began, voice soft. "I forgive you."I blinked. "Excuse me?""I forgive you," he repeated. "For whatever you thought you owed me—or whatever guilt you carried. I want you to know it's okay. You don’t have to explain yourself to me."I let out a short laugh, bitter but not
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