Julie:
I took a seat between Alex and Kyle, inhaling and exhaling deeply a few times to calm myself. Alex held my hand, offering reassurance, and as he whispered comforting words in my ear, a shiver ran down my spine. Before pulling away, he playfully bit my earlobe, leaving me momentarily flustered. As I lifted my head, someone entered the room, and I found myself face to face-with an angry Sara.
With a fake smile and a hint of malice in her eyes, Sara took a seat, casting a disgusted look my way. Despite the familiar fear, I refused to back down. Alex slipped his hand into mine, providing a comforting anchor. Sara stood up, heading to the kitchen. Sensing a tense atmosphere, I voiced my concerns to Alex, expressing my fear.
"Alex, I don't think we should tell them tonight. I mean, I am kind of scared, okay?"
"It's okay if you don't feel like it. We can tell them another time. I don't want you stressing yourself in times like this, so just take as long as you need."