An Ugly Past.

Quinn’s heart pounded as she watched Ivan leave the room. His usual expression had softened, but the non-communicable tension between her brother and Harrison did not go unnoticed.

She turned back to Harrison, who sat opposite her, his face masked with concern.

Harrison's eyes met hers, searching for her fears.

“Quinn,” he began softly, taking her hand in his. His voice was steady, but she could feel his anxiety. “I want you to tell me what happened. What happened with your ex? I want to understand. I want to help.”

Quinn felt a shiver run down her spine at the mention of her ex. She had tried so hard to keep the memories buried, to forget the fear and the trauma.

The look in Harrison’s eyes was one of genuine concern and not pity. She knew she owed him the truth if they were going to move forward together, and there were no hiding secrets.

She took a deep breath, her voice trembling as she began to speak.

"I need to know what happened with your ex. You've told me bits of it, but