You were lost in your thoughts, unaware that you had wandered deep into the forest until you realized you had lost your way. A wave of despair washed over you, and you felt the urge to cry. Suddenly, a hand gently rested on your shoulder, and you screamed in fright but it was only Alessandro , your ex-lover. Without thinking, the words slipped from your lips. "I hate you," though you couldn't bring yourself to look him in the eyes. He cornered you against a nearby tree, his gaze burning with challenge as he said, "Look into my eyes... and say you hate me." Your breath caught in your throat as his eyes wandered over the features he had once adored. He leaned in closer, his voice a soft whisper, "Breathe."