No. The event ends quietly

Each of the girls give you a big hug as you walk back to the booth to finish out the market day. The mood more somber than the morning had been. Naomi hovers, never more than a few feet away from you. The others all seem to be checking on you too. You feel lighter though. It was hard to confront Ashley but you feel better overall. The market day finally comes to an end and you all pack up the booth and handful of baked goods left. By silent agreement, the girls send Naomi to sit in your lap for the ride home. She snuggles into your arms, her head on your shoulder.

"Why didn't you tell me you caught Ashley cheating?" Naomi asked.

"It wasn't my place to share" you replied simply.

"What do you mean it wasn't your place? She did it right in front of you. It's the reason that your relationship ended" Naomi replied, genuinely confused by your answer.

You smile softly and respond "You've heard the tale now. What would you have done back then if I had told you what Ashley did?"

"Easy, I'd have throttled her" Naomi replied instantly. "I'd have broken her. Humiliated her."

"I know you would have." He smiled down at her as he gave her a squeeze. "And that's the problem. Then we would have had to explain it and word would have gotten around as to why and everyone would have known. And while I was hurt by Ashley, was so mad at Ashley, I still loved her. And I still don't wish her ill. I just can't." He paused for a moment before continuing, "Besides, without having gone through and surviving Hurricane Ashley, we wouldn't be having this moment right now."

That realization stunned Naomi. Part of what made Jace was this kindness and understanding. Part of what bonded them were their experiences. Both good, bad and sometimes horrible. Naomi reached up and pulled Jace's mouth to hers, kissing him deeply. "Thank you Jace for being you." Naomi beamed brightly up at him, her love and respect for him growing farther. Naomi knew that something had shifted between them this morning. She'd never crossed the line before then but she was so happy she had and did not want to go back. She didn't understand why she had crossed today but was thankful she did. She'd finally let herself fall and she fell hard. She loved you and wanted to be with you no matter what.