Henry Jackson glanced at her, his voice steady and protective. "Breathe, Eliana. In and out, like I showed you last night. You're not alone in this. I'll be right there. And remember, you're fighting for love—real love. That's worth the fear."
They arrived at the company, the parking lot buzzing with early commuters. Henry parked and turned to her, his warm eyes locking onto hers in a pep talk that felt like a lifeline. "Okay, listen. You've got this. Walk in there with that hopeful smile of yours. Tell him everything—the fear, the running, the regret. Don't let him shut you down. And if things get rough, I'm waiting in the lobby. You're strong, Eliana. Go show him."
