That one hit like a physical blow. Elise felt her spine stiffen.

“Not because I wanted you gone,” he rushed to clarify, “but because for three weeks, I didn’t have to watch you disappear in front of me anymore. I didn’t have to see you fading and know I couldn’t stop it. The house was empty, but at least I wasn’t failing you in real-time.”

His eyes glistened wet, but he quickly blinked them away.

“Something I never told you is…” His voice cracked completely now. “I’m terrified you’ll realize you’re better off without me. That the version of yourself you’re finding doesn’t have room for who I am.”

Elise’s...