CHAPTER 70

DECLAN

Things did go better than I expected. As I pulled the car to a stop at a safe distance, I turned to Hazel, concern etched on my face. "Are you okay?" I asked softly, reaching out to touch her hand.

She licked her lips nervously, her gaze fixed on her trembling hands. "I'm fine," she replied unconvincingly, but I could see the pain hidden beneath her facade.

Gently, I squeezed her hand, offe