Chapter 198

• [One month later]
• Vincent stood outside the church, his heart hammering against his chest like a wild animal trapped in a cage. He fought the overwhelming hesitation that crept up his spine, threatening to paralyze him. But he was failing every fight—every voice in his head that convinced him that he was ready for it.
• The sun beat down on him mercilessly, making the air around him feel thick and heavy. With every breath, he felt like he was inhaling molten lava. All he had to do was push himself forward, walk inside, and face the eyes of everyone present. He didn’t have to say anything. He could sit quietly, lost in his own thoughts. Everyone would understand. They had to.