Grace POV

"Ethan," I say, my voice quiet but steady despite the pain. "I need you to trust me. Can you do that?"

His eyes meet mine, and I see confusion warring with concern. But beneath that, I see the same certainty I felt when we kissed.

"Always," he says.

I gesture toward the token lying on the ground. "Help me reach it. And then put your hand on it with mine."

Ethan doesn't hesitate. He supports my weight as we move together toward the token. ...