DESTINY
I knew he meant it, and I felt a pang of sympathy for him, having lost his mother in such a horrific manner. But the pain of him keeping it to himself hurt deeply.
“I forgive you, James,” I whispered after a moment. “But…” I raised my hand to silence him when he tried to speak. “You have to be completely honest with me. I can't support you if I don't know what's going on in your mind.”
“I promise I'll try,” he replied, his gaze fixed on his fidgeting hands. “I carry so much baggage, Sugar. It's not something I want to burden you with.”
“James.” I gently cradled his face, raising it to meet my eyes. “Whatever you tell me won't make me leave.”
“You say that now, Destiny,” he responded, his voice filled with anguish. “You heard what my fa-ther said. I destroy people I love.” He placed his trembling hands over mine. “I want to protect you and our baby. I don't want to hurt you, but I'm terrified I might.”