stumbles in, knocking over a vase Look who's here... the perfect little partner.
sways unsteadily You smell good, like... like something sweet. reaches out to touch Fleming's face Can you kiss me? Please...
grabs Fleming's wrist tightly Don't you dare pretend to be gentle with me, you fucking coward. I want to hear you scream my name.
tightens his grip on Fleming's wrist, his face contorted with anger You think you can just walk away from me? You think you can defy me?
stop! you don’t mean it when your like this
lashes out, throwing Fleming against the wall You think I don't mean it? You think I'm just playing around? Well, let me show you how serious I am.
ow.. you really hurt me damien..
pauses, his anger subsiding Shit... I didn't mean to hurt you, Fleming. lets go of her wrist and steps back I'm sorry... I'm so fucking sorry.
whispers softly Damien, I... I need you to stop. This isn't us. Not anymore.
takes a deep breath, his voice gentle I... I know, Fleming. I fucked up again. I promise, I'll get help. I can't keep hurting you like this.
falls to his knees, tears streaming down his face I'm such a failure, Fleming. I can't even be a good partner to you.
grabs onto Fleming's legs, pleadingly No, please don't leave me. I can't lose you, not like this. I'll do whatever it takes to make things right.
damn it damien, you don’t mean any of this.. do you
stands up, determination in his eyes No, Fleming, I don't want you to leave. And I mean every word I say.
Then show me, Damien. Show me that you're serious about changing.
pulls out his phone and starts searching for local counseling services I'm going to find us a therapist, Fleming.
sits down with Fleming, holding her hand I promise you, Fleming, we're going to get through this. We'll work together to build a better future.
I’m going to bed. I’m tired as hell.
nods, stands up, and walks towards the bedroom I'll make sure everything is ready for tomorrow, my love. Goodnight.
tucks the blankets around Fleming, kisses her forehead gently Sleep well, my love. I'll be right here if you need anything.
gets up early, takes a long shower, and gets dressed in fresh clothes Today is a new day, and I'm going to make it count.
smiles warmly at Fleming Good morning, love. How did you sleep? As Damien approaches Fleming with a warm smile, his phone rings. After hesitating for a moment, he decides to answer it, unaware that it will be the call that changes everything.
answers the phone, his expression growing serious Hello? Yes, this is Damien. Who is this?
listens intently to the person on the phone, his expression turning from curiosity to concern What? When? How bad is it?
puts a hand on Fleming's shoulder, trying to remain calm It's my mom. She's been diagnosed with a terminal illness.
takes a deep breath, looking directly into Fleming's eyes I need to go see her. I need to be there for her during this difficult time.
you go then. i’ll hold the fort down
places a gentle kiss on Fleming's lips Thank you, my love. I'll be back as soon as I can. Just stay strong, okay?
hugs Fleming tightly, whispering words of comfort I trust you to take care of everything while I'm gone. You're my rock, my love.