I want to cry, lay down, open my mind, and let it pour away. I’m desolate and scared. An internal agony threatens to consume me, vibrating inside my stomach. I never thought I would be in this place ever again. I’m afraid, and fear is not something I ever wanted back in my head.

I pick up my cell and call Jake’s number. It’s an impulse, something I do without a thought. He always knows how to make me smile and make me feel better. Just his voice on the other end will make me ...