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As I reached out from under the covers, Haven's large and warm hand clasped mine.
I had always been clumsy at comforting others. Especially when it came to hurts from the past that had already gone by, I struggled with what to say.
I held Haven's hand tighter, hoping he would feel what I couldn't quite say, and he leaned in to kiss the back of my hand. Even in the dark, I could feel his smile.
"You've become a duke in your own right. Your parents would be proud," I complimented.
"I hope so."
"Listening to the stories of your childhood, it's even harder for me to imagine. How did you change so drastically during adolescence? Was it that mentor you mentioned?"
"Mentor?"
"You said someone taught you that to prove your worth, you must bear the weight of responsibility."
"Oh, right. Well, that person wasn't exactly a mentor but certainly changed my life."
"So, you met that person and went through your stormy sixteenth year, huh?"
