(Derek)
I took a deep breath, my chest tightening as I sat back down beside Olivia. Madeline had left, but her presence still hung in the air like a toxic cloud.
Olivia smiled at me, trying to lighten the mood, but I couldn't get rid of the unease creeping in. I needed to talk to her, to tell her everything—before Madeline or anyone else got the chance.
"Olivia, we need to talk," I said, my voice lower than I intended. She looked up at me, surprised by my serious tone.
"What's wrong?" She asked, concern flashing in her eyes.
"I need to tell you about my past. About why I get so protective, why I can’t stand the idea of you being around certain people... especially people like Madeline." She sat up straighter, her attention fully on me now. I had no idea how to start this conversation.
