“She looked at me like I wasn’t the villain anymore. Just a boy who finally shut up long enough to listen. And for once… I didn’t need more.” Summary: Jace never expected her to meet his eyes again. But when Ivy looks up—really looks—it stops him cold. No anger. No softness either. Just quiet recognition. For the first time since losing her, he’s seen as something other than what he used to be. It’s not forgiveness, not a promise. But it’s not nothing. And for Jace, that silent moment of connection is enough to keep showing up, because hope doesn’t have to shout to be real.