Ethan
Clara says her name... And everything inside me stops. Vanessa.
She's not just one person. Not in our history. Not in what she was... and in what she almost destroys.
I look at her... And for a second I don't know where to start. Not because I don't have answers. But because I have too many... And none of them feel simple enough to say without hurting.
Her expression is not one of rage. Not yet.
It's worse, it's doubt. And that... that weighs more.
I run a hand over my face, exhale slowly. I need to order this. I can't go wrong now. Not with her. Not after everything we are trying to rebuild.
"I'm sorry..." I begin, but my voice is barely cut off.
I swallow hard.
"I'm really sorry that happened."
I look straight at her.
"I know how important that event was to you... that m
