C137 SOME PAINS CAN'T HEAL.

Ethan approached Brandon, keeping his face blank but his steps alert. He hadn’t wanted to admit it at first—hadn’t wanted to confront the truth that had been killing him within since they started talking about his past. But now, standing in front of Brandon, it felt impossible to ignore.

Ethan’s gaze softened, and his voice lowered to a vulnerable murmur. “You were right, Brandon,” he began