Shattered Ice (Hawksview U #1)

by P.S. Black

“He’s my best friend and I want him back. His childhood was stolen from him, and now his teenage years have been taken away too. I want him to live, not just for me, but for himself. I want him to see the world, I want him to meet someone, have a family. Marry. I want him to witness what actual love is.” His voice becomes hoarse, and I glimpse the woman across from me, her eyes glazing over. “He kept me safe during my childhood. We had, well, have a bad mom. She cared for us until she didn’t. During my upbringing, he filled the roles of both my mom and dad. All he ever wanted was a better life for me, and I can’t help but feel guilty about what happened to him. He started this because of me and then it took over him.” His once upright stance crumbles as he fixes his gaze on the ground, his shoulders sagging. I don’t want to cut him off by interrupting him and checking he’s okay. I want him to fully communicate his thoughts. I think he needs this. He needs to speak to people who understand the struggle he is going through. “He wants to stop.” He sighs and then continues. “He knows I’m here today. We cannot secure the necessary funds for his placement in a reputable rehab center, and the state options are not helpful. He’s trying to stop for me, but I need him to do it for himself more than anything. As far as I’m aware, he has never tried to quit before. I see this as a promising start, but yeah.” He shrugs his shoulders. “I’m at a loss and uncertain about my next move. Des...

this is entirely too fucking long jesus christ