I could sense Rose's discomfort as she shifted in her seat, avoiding my gaze. The mention of the man on the beach, who was apparently her father, seemed to strike a nerve with her. But I couldn't shake my curiosity and decided to ask again.
"Tell me about your father, Rose," I said gently, reaching out to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear.
"I...I can't," Rose stammered, wringing her hands in her lap. Her eyes darted around nervously.
"Okay, then what about your mother?" I probed, hoping for any insight into her family.
"Why do you want to know?" Rose's voice trembled slightly, betraying her guarded nature.
"Because I want to know you. Everything about you. You keep trying to push me away, but I want to be your friend," I said truthfully.
She looked down and smiled shyly making me
