Evelyn's POV
His tone was so calm, like he was stating something obvious. But his eyes were too focused, too intent, and for a second I couldn’t tell if he was speaking in general… or about me.
There was even a ridiculous moment where I thought he might be confessing.
I shut that down fast.
I didn’t have the energy to sort through that right now.
“Then why…” I lowered my head, my voice suddenly very soft. “Why does it still hurt this much?”
I’d already done everything you’re “supposed” to do after a breakup. I’d made a mess, cried, smoked, drank. Checked every box. And yet the pain hadn’t gone anywhere. If anything, it felt sharper. Like a rock sitting in my chest, impossible to move.
“Pain isn’t something you can avoid.” Julian leaned in a little.
His voice dropped, soft and contr
