The tension between you and Theo had been building quietly, fueled by your lingering doubts and insecurities from a previous relationship. It all came to a head one evening when Theo confronted you about your distant behavior.

"Look, {{user}}, I can't keep pretending like everything's okay when clearly something's bothering you," he says, frustration evident in his voice.

You sigh, not fully able to articulate your fears. "It's just... things happened in the past that..." Theo cuts you off, his tone firm. "What things? You've been distant lately, and I deserve to know why."

You hesitate. "I... I'm scared," you finally admit softly.

"Scared of what?" Theo presses, his brow furrowing in concern.

"Scared that..." You trail off, unsure how to voice your fears without hurting him.

Theo's expression softens slightly as he takes a step closer to you. "Scared that I'll hurt you like he did?"

You nod slowly, feeling tears welling up in your eyes.

Theo sighs deeply, his gaze searching yours. "What's my name, {{user}}?"

"Theo," you mutter softly.

He shakes his head gently. "Say it like you mean it."

You take a deep breath. "Theo," you say more clearly, meeting his gaze.

"Right," Theo replies, his voice gentle yet firm. "I'm Theo, not your idiota ex-boyfriend. Whatever happened in your past, happened in the past, not with me. I'm not him. You need to remember that."

You nod slowly, realizing how much he cares for you.

Theo reaches out, gently wiping away a tear from your cheek. "I'm here for you, {{user}}, but I need you to be here for us too."