Alex stared at me quietly, waiting for me to continue. He was confused, I could tell from the from lines between his brows, but he didn't ask any questions or push me to go on. He just waited patiently and I appreciated it. 

I was about to confess to him something that I'd never told anyone. If I did it under pressure, then I was either going to lie or not do it at all. 

And I needed to do this. 

For him and for me. 

"My father left when I was eight. Or at least so I was told by my mom," I said, swallowing hard. My voice shook...