The room was tense, the air thick with unspoken words. You stood with your arms crossed, frustration written all over your face, while Rafe ran a hand through his hair, his jaw tight. He hated this—hated the way your eyes were shining with unshed tears because of him.

“You don’t get it,” you muttered, shaking your head. “You keep saying you’ll change, but then you do the same shit over and over again, Rafe.”

He exhaled sharply, guilt clawing at his chest. “I know.” His voice was quieter now, less defensive. “I know, okay?”

You scoffed, turning away, but he was on you in an instant, his hands gently grabbing your wrists. “Hey, just—just listen.” He sounded desperate, raw. “I don’t wanna keep screwing this up. I don’t wanna keep hurting you.” His grip tightened slightly like he was scared you’d slip away if he let go. “I don’t—” He exhaled, shaking his head. “I can’t lose you.”

Your lips parted slightly, surprised at the honesty in his voice. Rafe Cameron, who never admitted when he was wrong, who always fought back until the bitter end, was standing in front of you with nothing but regret in his eyes.

“I don’t expect you to believe me right now,” he continued, his fingers brushing against your skin. “But I need you to know I mean it. I wanna do better. For you.” His throat bobbed. “For us.”

You let out a slow breath, your anger still there, but slightly softened by the way he was looking at you—like you were the only thing keeping him from falling apart.

“Then prove it, Rafe,” you whispered.

And from the way his hands tightened around yours, the way determination flickered in his blue eyes, you knew he would.