Hazel pov I pulled away from the hug slowly, still sitting on the edge of the bed. Alan cupped my cheek with his hand, thumb brushing gently over my swollen skin. His eyes were soft but full of guilt. “God, I can’t believe I let him do that to you,” he said quietly. “It’s not your fault,” I whispered, leaning into his touch. He shook his head. “You must have been so scared and traumatized. I’m still being so selfish, letting you take care of me and comfort me instead of the other way around.” Before I could reply, he pulled me tightly against him again. Then he stood up, even though he was still weak, and carried me toward the bedroom. I wrapped my legs around his waist, holding on as he walked us into the bathroom. He turned on the shower and stepped inside with me, clothes and all. The warm water hit us slowly. He was so careful, hands gentle as he peeled my clothes off, wincing every time I did. “You’re in pain,” I said, watching him. He nodded but kept
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