Chapter Fourteen: Retreat

Lark exits Shoreview Assisted Living to find Lachlan waiting with a changed demeanor. He offers a ride, apologizes for the night he locked her in a trunk, and says he won’t ask for forgiveness—he intends to earn it. Despite her suspicion, their banter eases, and they drive while talking about her band.

Lachlan brings Lark to Rock Rose Lodge, revealing it’s a sleep retreat for her insomnia. He outlines a long-weekend plan with therapies and a specialist, urging her to take time off. Lark resists, worried about responsibilities, Ethel, and whether Lachlan might be pushing her away for someone else.

The tension breaks when Lark admits it hurts to care what Lachlan does. Lachlan reassures her he keeps vows even in their unconventional marriage and won’t step out. He emphasizes she is burning out and deserves rest. Conor is monitoring Foster leads and police activity; Lachlan will check on Ethel and take Bentley to visit, and the retreat can reach him if needed.

Lark agrees to stay, thanks him, and checks in at the lodge. In a quiet, intimate moment, Lachlan holds her, tells her to rest, kisses her temple, and leaves. Lark remains standing with a faint smile, committing to recovery while their fragile trust deepens.