“The seed, everything you see on the outside, is a hard coat. A protective shell.” I trail my finger over her hand holding the jewelry box. “The plant is under the shell and has to be awakened, and all of what we see on the outside has to fall away.” She nods, her eyes locked with mine. Her expression intent, absorbed. “Over the last few weeks, I’ve gotten to see you in this process.” I grab the hand resting in her lap, twisting my fingers around hers so she can’t ever let go. “You’ve discarded the trappings, the outside, and have awakened the part of you that is really alive. Germination is a
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