Eden's expression shifted, his eyes revealing a mixture of hesitation and vulnerability. He took a deep breath, as if gathering his thoughts, before deciding to share his story with me.

　　"Ellissa, my love, there are things about my past that aren't easy to talk about. But for you, I want to be open and honest." His voice was filled with sincerity as he reached out to hold my hand.

　　"Long before we crossed paths, I made choices that led me down a dark path," Eden ...