“Wait . . . I don’t need space. I’m sorry.” “You do, Olivia. But I’ll be watching. And when you’re ready, I’ll be back.” “Please stay.” “Why would you want that if you think I’m a monster?” I feel alive with you. I feel safer with you. I feel happier when you’re here. My mouth parts, but I’m not ready to tell him yet. To accept how quickly these feelings have developed. “I’ll be back when you have an answer for me.”
