KIERAN BLACKWOOD
As I walk through the clinic doors, the sound of silence hits me hard.
It’s almost deafening.
Each step I take echoes on the white marble floor, and I feel the weight of Jake’s presence beside me.
Scarlett walks a few steps behind us, as always, my silent anchor, ready to catch me if I lose control.
I don’t want to admit it, but my patience with Jake is as fragile as a thread about to snap.
Jake says nothing.
He keeps his hands in his jeans pockets, shoulders tense, as if carrying the weight of the world.
I haven’t known him long, but I already know he’s a mix of pride and insecurity—a dangerous combination that could explode at any moment.
As we wait for the elevator, he finally breaks the silence.
“Are you sure you want to do this?”
I turn to face him.
His ey
