CHAPTER 200: SOUL KINSHIP

"I know that's not true, but it's okay," He gently pulled her back into his arms, and this time, she rested her head against his chest. "I just feel like I'm disappointing myself…" she said, her voice sounding slightly muffled. Ryan rubbed her back softly and waited for her to continue. "...I feel like I should be over it already, and the fact that I'm not making me feel like I'm not doing enough." The genuine hurt in her words unlocked a protective side he didn't even know he had. He wanted to protect and comfort her, but he wasn't exactly sure how. "I understand you, Lauretta." "You do?" "Yes…I do. And I think you are doing great. You survived an abusive marriage, and you were strong enough to walk away before it swallowed you up," he pulled back and stared directly into her eyes and said, "Most women never make it that far; you should be proud of yourself." He sounded so earnest that she almost believed him. "Hey…" he whispered as he took in her doubtful expression. "I'm se