I smiled at my dad, and he chuckled, ruffling my hair.
“You’re just one heck of a boy.” He said, smiling.
I nodded, then noticed Rose walking in, trying to hide her face behind her hair. Her hand was covering her cheek. My dad noticed her come in.
“Alright, well I’ll leave you two alone for a bit.” he said, patting my shoulder before exiting the room.

As much as she tried to hide it, I could tell Rose was crying from her sudden, short breaths. She came over to my bed, but didn’t look at me.

“Rose? sweetie, what’s wrong?”

She sniffled, and shook her head, coming a bit closer.
“Rose… tell me.” I said gently, reaching out to touch her. I tucked her hair behind her ear, and her eyes were red from tears.
Pain shot through my heart like lightning, and it felt as though a javeline had pierced my chest. I couldn’t stand seeing her like this.

“Oh Rose, please tell me… I can’t stand seeing you so hurt…”
She then removed her hand from her cheek to hold mine, revealing a red hand mark.