“I… I think it’s my default,” she continued, lashes fluttering as she glanced down. “It’s easier to expect the worst than to hope for the best.” His heart twisted, knowing just how much Ivy must have been mistreated if her entire outlook on life was to brace for impact. It made him want to find whoever was the culprit and burn them and their houses to the ground. “I’m sorry for letting that cloud my judgement of you,” she murmured. Silas kissed the bridge of her nose, memorizing the smattering of freckles there. “You’re forgiven, my little witchling,” he said, letting his voice drop several
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