“I thought we had an understanding, kid,” I said quietly, making sure my voice wasn’t too harsh. “I trusted you.” Levi’s shoulders curled inward. He kept his eyes down, focused on the burned wood at his feet. For a long second, he said nothing. Then, finally, he exhaled and forced himself to meet my gaze. His voice was barely above a whisper. “I know I messed up.” I nodded, placing a gentle hand on his shoulder. “Yeah.” His throat bobbed. “I didn’t mean to—” I stepped forward, wrapping him in an awkward hug, his shovel pressed between us. “I know. We all mess up sometimes.” Silence stretched
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