Harper sat still for a moment, letting the silence settle before speaking gently.
“You don’t ruin something just by being afraid, Maya. You only ruin it if you stop showing up. And the difference now? You’re not alone in this anymore. So fight for it—because he’s already fighting for you.”
Maya’s voice cracked. “How? I’ve never been in a relationship. The only love I know is for my parents… for Jamie. I don’t even know how to love myself. I’m so weak…”
Then her voice broke completely, and she hid her face in trembling hands.
Harper’s expression softened. She moved closer and gently wrapped an arm around her shoulders, letting Maya lean into her.
“You’re not stupid, Maya. And you’re definitely not weak. You’re just feeling something real for the first time—and it’s scary. But don’t let
