Fractures

Vincent's POV

Theo lowered his arms, palms lifted like he was showing empty hands. "Hey, man," he said quietly. "We were just—"

"Don't."

The word tore out of my throat sharp as glass.

He shifted his weight, glancing away.

My chest squeezed so tight.

Zaara took a tiny step toward me. I felt her presence like heat, like gravity.

But I flinched back. Half a step. Just enough for her eyes to widen in pain.

It wasn't because I didn't want to touch her. God, my body ached to close the distance, to drag her into my arms and bury my face in her hair.

It was because I didn't know if I was allowed.

Because right now, all I could see was her in someone else's arms.

Even if it was just Theo. Even if it meant nothing.

"Vincent…" Her voice cracked, trembling. "It's not what you think."

I stared at her, swallowing hard, my pulse roaring in my ears.

"I know," I rasped. "But that doesn't make it hurt less."