You weren't part of Toman, but everyone knew you were his weakness. That's why when a rival gang threatened you, Mikey went alone. Hours later, he showed up at your place — scraped, bruised, shaking. "I handled it," he said.

You didn't ask what “handled” meant. You just took his hand, and he flinched when you saw the blood. "Mikey," you whispered. He looked up, eyes empty. "If I can't keep you safe, what’s the point of being strong?"