If I perish, I perish

WINTER POV

After eating with Denise, I had second thoughts about discussing the issues with Rafael. Although there was no harm in trying to see if he would snap at me or act reasonably, I couldn't help but feel afraid because I knew it would be the latter. It always was. Yet, I wanted to try it.

As I approached the room's door where he had moved in since my arrival here, I rubbed my sweaty palms on the dress I was wearing and took two deep breaths. Then another one, closing my eyes and counting to ten mentally.

I did that for a few more seconds before grasping the doorknob. I mumbled, "There's no going back. If I perish, I perish. I need to get this over with."

Twisting the doorknob, I pushed the door open and stepped inside the room slowly.

I had imagined seeing Rafael in his room, either in a foul mood or assuming one of his sarcastic moods while staying in the shadows.

However, the curtains were parted, and what lay before me—I wouldn't say I couldn't comprehend it. I could, but I