The living room was dimly lit by the soft glow of the lamp in the corner. Antony sat on the edge of the couch, his hands clasped together as he listened quietly. Lydia paced back and forth in front of him, her voice low but heavy with frustration.
"Antony, I know you're kind. I know you've always wanted to be the hero, to save everyone. But this..." she gestured toward the hallway leading to Rita's room, "...this isn't just about kindness. You're getting too deep. She's pregnant with another man's child, and divorced. Do you really think this is the life you deserve?"
Antony sighed, not looking up.
"You deserve someone who hasn't been broken by someone else. Someone who will give you a fresh start, not baggage."
Rita had woken up moments earlier, her throat dry. She walked ba
