***BASTIAN***

The morning sunlight slipped through the curtains, finding my face like it had a purpose.

I squinted, turning my back to it, not ready to face the day or whatever it carried.

The room was too quiet, the kind that makes your thoughts get loud.

My chest felt heavy, my mind still drifting between dreams I couldn’t remember and the truth waiting outside.

Then, a knock — loud and unsteady.

It had to be John.

I never got the peace I deserved when he was around.

Before I could ...