Chapter 28- Throw in a little umbrella for effect

Zack hesitated, his thoughts swirling. He'd been trying to push down the feelings, the tension between him and Nia, but it was becoming impossible. "We had a...sort of. kind of.. confrontation about some things. She's still hurt, Deb. And I get it, I do. But it's not easy seeing her like that."

Deborah's expression softened. "I imagine it wouldn't be. You two have a history?"

Zack nodded, his jaw tightening. "Yes, and I messed up at that time. She's still carrying all that pain, and no matter what I say, it doesn't seem like it's enough to fix things."

Deborah's eyes softened as she watched him wrestle with his emotions. "Maybe it's not about fixing things, Zack."

Zack ran a hand over his face. "I know. But it doesn't make it any easier. I want to help, but every time I try, it feels like I'm just making things worse."