POV: Allison

When he didn't retract his hand from me, I lunged forward, the last vestiges of control slipping as I threw myself into his arms, hoping he would understand me. He stiffened, trying to push me away, but my grip was tight, and for a moment, he simply let me cling to him. Absorbing my warmth, he remained silent, a turbulent ocean concealed beneath the surface.

"You disappointed me, Allison! I thought we had a deal; I thought you understood me," he said, the weight of his anger pressing down on me like a heavy stone tied around my neck, causing me to drown in guilt and shame.

"I'm...