Year 2017
Tatum let out a tired sigh, his voice slightly strained as he spoke, “I know you want to push me away.” His gaze was steady but soft, his eyes filled with a mix of empathy and determination. “I know you hate my guts. I know you hate the way I act around you. I know I seem like an overwhelming obnoxious force to you. I know I am annoying for coming here and bringing you snacks and drinks after shift even if you told me to never be friends and even if you ignore me. But I know you possibly went through something that caused you to be more vigilant and fearful with the people around you, but I am here.” He paused as his eyes fixed on her firmly, “I am still here, and I am staying.”
As Tatum’s words washed over her, Atlas felt a mix of emotions swirling within her. The vulnerabilit
