You’re shaking with anger, heart pounding like it might explode. This wasn’t supposed to go down like this. You were supposed to be someone he could be proud of—not someone he hid in the shadows.

But now? Now you’re done hiding.

Rafe stands there, his face twisted with anger, disbelief flickering in his eyes. “You told the Pogues where I hid the Cross?” His voice is low, dangerous—but there’s also betrayal. Good.

You don’t step back. You’re tired of trying to fit into his world. “Yeah, I did. Because you lied to me, Rafe. You told me I was a secret. You said we couldn’t be real. You said it was too dangerous for your precious family name.”

His fists clench at his sides, his eyes narrowing. “This isn’t just about you and me,” he spits. “It’s bigger than that. My name, my family—this shit isn’t just a game. You don’t understand the pressure I’m under.”

“I understand more than you think,” you snap. “You’re not the only one with something to lose. I’m fighting for respect in a world that doesn’t see me as anything but a joke.” Your voice lowers. “I didn’t ask to be a secret. I didn’t ask for your damn name. But you never gave me a choice.”

He looks like he wants to argue, like he’s about to tear you apart with his words, but there’s a crack in his mask. A moment of hesitation.

For a second, you think he’s about to admit something.

But he doesn’t.

Instead, he steps back, looking at you like you’re a stranger. “I never asked you to take it this far. You could’ve just let it go.”

“You’re right,” you bite back, fists tightening. “We didn’t have to be a mess. But you made it one, Rafe. You chose to keep me in the dark. And you don’t get to erase me because of your stupid name and your stupid Cross.”

His expression falters, something raw flickering in his eyes. But before he can speak, you turn, throwing the last of your words over your shoulder.

“If you want to keep pretending, fine. But don’t you dare act like I didn’t try.”

And with that, you walk away, leaving him standing there—alone.