I clutch my stomach, trying like hell to breathe and even harder to suppress the tears that threaten to fall. I didn’t realize how difficult it would be to push Rex away. The vulnerable part of me wanted to fall into his arms, while the tough side of me had to keep him at bay. I can’t erase the look on his face when he talked about the picture. It made me want to wrap my arms around him and never let him go—to be the one who takes away his demons. But I can’t be his savior and I certainly won’t be his punching bag. For a second, I wonder if I was too hard on him—until the memory of last night kicks me in the gut and I realize I probably wasn’t hard enough. Trust is a fragile thing and once it’s shattered, the pieces are difficult to put back together. The problem is, I’m drawn to him, like a moth is to a flame. I know myself, though, and sooner or later I’ll get burned. As hard as it is, I have to distance myself. Even though it’s the last thing I want to do. Trying to temper my thoughts, I gather my bags and focus on getting to work.
