Avery’s POVRafa didn't let go of my hand for a long time. He stayed beside me as if he thought that if he blinked, I would disappear. I didn't know what to do with that kind of concern. It was heavier than anything I had carried before, yet softer. It was strange, confusing, and in a way I couldn't name, scary. “I'm fine,” I said eventually, trying to pull my hand away. Rafa shook his head. “You’re not fine, not even close.” He wasn't wrong, though. My head felt light, like it might fall off my shoulder at any second. My chest tightened painfully, and my breathing was uneven. My body felt drained, as if all its energy had been sucked out. But I didn't want him to worry more than he already did. I didn't want him to see me like this, weak and falling apart. “I can handle…” I tried to argue, my voice low and trembling. “You don't have to handle everything all alone,” Rafa said, cutting me off. His voice wasn't sharp or scolding; it was soft, warm, and steady. “Not anymore.” I loo
Last Updated : 2025-11-22 Read more