voiding Emma's gaze. She could sense the tension bui

ma pressed on, her voice firm but gentle.

es as if trying to ward off a

e speaking. "I left because of my dad. H

piqued. "What k

ing they were alone. "He was in deep financial trouble. He'd made s

ned in surprise.

rom our friends. But I couldn't just sit back and w

left to help your dad? But why did you cu

felt like I'd let everyone down, including you. I didn't

nd fear he'd carried alone. "You should ha

regret. "I know, Em. I was stupid and pr

Emma felt the walls she'd built around her heart begin to cru