Julian

"Thank you," I said quietly. "For telling me this. For caring enough about both of us to call me out."

"That's what friends do." He smiled slightly. "Even when it's uncomfortable."

"Is she okay? Really?"

"She will be. She's tougher than any of us give her credit for." He paused in the doorway. "But Jules?"

"Yeah?"

"Don't do this again. Don't call her broken. Don't use her trauma as a weapon. Don't push her away because you're scared." His voice was gentle but absolutely serious. "Because she's giving you a chance right now. She's being brave enough to try with you even though you hurt her. And if you...