MAYA

He leaned in close to me, “Kitten, I’d literally do anything for you,” he said softly, almost like a promise. “This is just mid… now walk inside.”

I did as he said, and joy filled up in my heart like a soft, overflowing warmth. My steps felt lighter, like I was floating.

Inside, my eyes fell on the giant teddy bear sitting right on my bed, staring at me with its round eyes. My breath caught for a second. I went straight to it instinctively, my hands reaching out before I even ...