“Do you not want me anymore? What about Dessa? I thought we were partners?” My voice is soft, and I hate that I can feel tears in my eyes. I’m meant to be a big boy; I shouldn’t be crying. “Of course we do, Lincoln. Dessa is so worried and upset that this has happened,” he says, sighing again. He leans closer, his eyes filled with sadness and understanding. “We know you want to be her partner, buddy, but Hydessa isn’t ready for your darkness yet, okay? Maybe someday, but not yet.”
