Chapter 28: Chapter 28

My eyes soften as i look at him, the tension between us easing slightly. "I appreciate that, Michael, but I don't need you to protect me by keeping secrets. I need you to trust me."

Michael reaches for my hand, his thumb gently brushing over my knuckles. "I do trust you. More than anyone. But sometimes, I forget that I don't have to carry everything on my own. I'm not used to having someone like you in my life."

I squeeze his hand, my heart aching at the vulnerability in his voice. "You don't have to do this alone," i whisper. "We're in this together, remember?"

Michael nods his head, his eyes filled with gratitude. "Thank you," he says softly. "I don't know what I'd do without you."

We sit in silence for a moment, the weight of the conversation still hanging between us. But for the first time in days, I can feel a sense of peace. We still have a long way to go, but at least we are facing it together.