“
I have to. I can’t let you leave and not try to make you understand. I love you.” I shook my head, and he stepped in front of me, taking me by the shoulders. “I do. I love you.” I felt the tears building. “Look at me.” I lifted my chin, meeting his gaze. He looked as exhausted as I felt. Tormented. Sad. “I know you’re scared, Pix. I am too. I worry I’m not enough for you. That you’ll feel the same way about me my family did. I know you think love has to hurt and that you’ll always come last, but not with me. You will always be first.
”
”