I sat holding Augustus's hand, searching for words that wouldn't shatter us.
"I don't think you're trying to change me on purpose."
His fingers tightened.
"But?"
"Sometimes I feel like you're waiting for me to become someone else."
"Juliette—"
"Please let me finish."
He nodded.
"When I do something you wouldn't choose, you react as though I've made a mistake. Not a different decision. A mistake."
"Disagreeing with a decision doesn't mean I disapprove of you."
"I know. But it doesn't always feel that way."
Augustus studied our joined hands, thinking. I recognized that expression from work: he could untangle complicated problems by examining them from every angle. Right now, I wished he'd simply look at me.
"I respect your independence," he said. "I admire your work at Ever Holdings. I've never questioned your capabilities."
"I know."
"But maturity isn't only about being capable when circumstances demand it."
"Then what is it?"
