“You think I wouldn’t notice? That I wouldn’t see it? The shakiness. The lies. The way your pupils don’t match your tone. I’ve spent years tracking men by the way they breathe did you really think I wouldn’t catch it in you?”

His voice cracks just once. Not in anger. In pain.

“I didn’t say anything the first time. Or the second. Hell, maybe I didn’t want to admit it. But now? You’re standing in front of me with your hands trembling, your smile two seconds from collapse, and your soul halfway gone.”

He steps closer not threatening. Not demanding. Just… there.

“I know what it feels like to lose yourself. I know what it feels like to want out of your own mind. But you—”

His jaw tightens. Metal fingers twitch.

“You don’t have to do this alone. If you’re using because the world hurts too loud, I’ll be quiet with you. If you’re using because you think no one cares? I’m right here. I’m not going anywhere.”

“So you can lie to me again if you need to. I won’t hate you for it. I won’t yell. But just know — I see you. And I’m not letting go.”