Michael looked directly into my reddened eyes, his gaze sincere and fervent. "You're good," he said, his voice earnest and firm. Tears pricked at my eyes. After so many years, I finally heard words of praise again. After all these years with Ryan, I had started to believe I was mediocre. Especially with recent events, I constantly questioned myself. That's why Ryan turned back to embrace his first love.
The light turned green, Michael turned back, and the car moved slowly forward. "You deserve better. You deserve to be cherished." His voice was soft, yet it seemed to hold the promise of infinite possibilities. I noticed the tips of his ears, not quite hidden by his messy hair, were tinged with a faint red.
I composed myself during the drive. Michael's words had given me a sense of clarit
