Chapter 9: Secrets Revealed
As the days turned into weeks, Ethan and Roman's relationship continued to blossom. They spent their days exploring the city, trying new restaurants, and laughing together.
But despite their growing closeness, Ethan couldn't shake the feeling that Roman was still hiding something from him.
One evening, as they were putting Max to bed, Ethan decided to confront Roman about his suspicions.
"Roman, can I ask you something?" Ethan said, his voice soft.
Roman nodded, looking up from the book he was reading. "Of course."
"What happened to you after you left me?" Ethan asked, his eyes locked onto Roman's.
Roman's expression changed, and he looked away. "I...I told you, Ethan. I'm not ready to talk about that yet."
Ethan nodded understandingly. "I know you said that, but I can tell there's something more. Something you're not telling me."
Roman sighed, rubbing his temples. "Ethan, please. Just drop it."
Ethan's eyes narrowed. "No, Roman. I won't drop it. I deserve to know what happened to you."
Roman's eyes flashed with anger, but then he seemed to deflate, his shoulders slumping in defeat.
"Fine," Roman said, his voice barely above a whisper. "I'll tell you."
Ethan's heart skipped a beat as Roman began to speak.
"After I left you, I was in a dark place," Roman said, his eyes haunted. "I was struggling to come to terms with my pregnancy, with the fact that I was going to be a father."
Ethan's eyes filled with compassion. "I'm so sorry, Roman. I had no idea."
Roman nodded, his voice cracking. "I know you didn't. And that's not even the worst of it."
Ethan's heart was racing as Roman continued to speak.
"I was in an abusive relationship," Roman said, his voice barely above a whisper. "My ex-partner was controlling and manipulative. He made me feel like I was worthless."
Ethan's eyes widened in horror. "Roman, I'm so sorry."
Roman nodded, his eyes filled with tears. "I know. Me too."
As Ethan listened to Roman's story, he felt a wave of emotions wash over him. He was angry, sad, and scared all at once.
But most of all, he was grateful. Grateful that Roman had finally opened up to him, grateful that he had shared his secrets.
As they hugged, Ethan knew that their relationship had reached a new level. They had crossed a threshold, and there was no going back.
"I'm here for you, Roman," Ethan said, his voice filled with conviction. "I'll always be here for you."
Roman smiled, his eyes shining with tears. "I know, Ethan. I know."