Jack stood up abruptly, staring at Mariam. This confession was pressing on his chest, he needed to get it out, and it had to be now.

"Hey!" Jack called out.

Mariam looked up, her expression soft yet curious. They had just gotten back together. After the romance and the relief of being reunited, the last thing she wanted was more drama. She could sense his agitation but wasn’t ready for more problems.

"Jack, what’s this about? Can’t it wait? We’ve just made up. Let’s not spoil this moment," she said, her tone gentle but firm.

Jack shook his head. "No, Mariam, it can’t wait. I need to get this off...