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No, I can’t do this with him. It is already too much to share a part of me that I tried so hard to bury—let alone relive it. I won’t survive it this time.

“If I understand correctly, you want me to show how Drake ruined me? Is that what you want to say?” I say incredulously.

Brandon nods. “Yes.”

“You’re just as insane if you ask me to relive every terrible memory!” I point a finger. My insides burn, and I feel the heat around my neck.

“I’m not trying to hurt you or force you, Alayna.”

I shove his shoulder away and stand up. “I can’t believe you.” I embrace myself. “You, of all people, should understand what I’ve been going through. You went through hardships before. You knew how it felt, and you’re making me relive everything.” I snivel back my tears.

Brandon’s presence moves behind me and grasps my arms. His fingertips softly press on my flesh. “It’s not like that,” he whispers. “I’m telling you now that it’s not.”

He then presses a small kiss on my cheek, close to my ear, then down