“Don’t leave me.” “Joe…” “Please just stay.” He paused to release another slow breath before continuing. “This is the only time it’s ever stopped. Please don’t break it.” “This is the only time what’s ever stopped?” I croaked out, feeling my heart thunder wildly in my chest. “And don’t break what?” “My head,” he mumbled, before adding, “The quiet.” I don’t understand, I wanted to cry, but I held firm and remained calm. “I promise I won’t leave you,”
