Built to Fall

by Julia Wolf

“Being hurt by the man who’s supposed to love you doesn’t mean you’re not a strong woman. It means the man is weak.”

You opened me in every way. I can’t remember very many times I’ve been as vulnerable as I was stripped and raw in front of that mirror. But with you, I felt safe to lean into my vulnerability and explore the raw parts of me. And I think...I think once this is over, I won’t go back inside my shell ever again. That’s what I meant by being opened up.”

“Please. I need to tell you about Dylan. My boy.” He cleared his throat, then pressed another kiss on my head. “My son.”

“If I have the choice between stewing in my own thoughts and spending every waking second with you, it’s going to be you every single time.”

“I’m in love with you. I’ve weighed the risks, and loving you is worth it.”

Love me out loud, so I never question it. No lukewarm. No half measures. I’ll do the same back.”