Will and I spent the rest of the morning sitting comfortably together watching TV. We only moved once we heard Becca's door open. We separated from one another and I wasn't sure how to feel about it.

Becca came down the hall quickly. "Hey Will. It's good to see you."

She walked out, grabbed him by his shirt, and planted a kiss right on his lips, making me look away in discomfort. I refused to look in their direction again until Becca spoke to me.

"So, how was your date? I never heard him leave last night." She wiggled her eyebrows suggestively at me. I noticed in the corner of my eye that Will was staring at me, waiting for my answer as well. I couldn't help but think of his earlier words: 'I don't think you should be with him.'

I knew he wouldn't like my answer but I didn't want to lie. "I had a lot of fun. I fell asleep laying against him and he fell asleep like that as well, so he did actually sleep over. I think we're going to go out again."

Becca celebrated with me for a moment until she told us she had to go to class. She left quickly, leaving Will and I alone together stewing in awkwardness. I decided I should probably break the silence first.

"So it seems like things are going well between you and Becca. I'm glad."

He looked at me for a moment, studying me. "Yeah, things are going well. She's glad we're finally public with it."

I waited for a moment, thinking he was going to say more. When he remained silent, I realized he was going to stay tight-lipped about their relationship. Maybe it was because he didn't want to hear about mine? Either way, I wouldn't push.

The silence was thankfully broken by the sound of my phone ringing. I picked it up and saw a number I didn't recognize. Deciding to just go with it, I answered.

"Hello?"

"Ms. Annalise Bloom? This is Dr. Jones from Pittsburgh General Hospital. I'm sorry to inform you that your father is in the ICU after having a heart attack. You were listed as his emergency contact."

My heart dropped in my chest. He what?! "Is he alright?"

"He is in stable condition now, though it was a bit touch and go for a while. You're welcome to come pay him a visit. Once he's up and talking I will make sure to tell him to give you a call. Is there anything I can do to make this time easier for you?"

Though the words were so kind, his tone was extremely nonchalant, as if it was another Tuesday to him. I knew I couldn't rely on him for anything even if I did need something.

"No, thank you. I appreciate the call."

"No problem miss. Have a nice day."

"You too—" Before I even had a chance to wish him one as well the line went dead.

I sat in shock. My father...almost died? How could that be?

Will must have noticed the odd call because he wasted no time gently turning my body toward him and asking what was wrong.

"Um...my dad had a heart attack. He nearly died." I replied haltingly.

"I'm so sorry! Do you want me to drive you to his hospital? We can leave as soon as you want." He jumped into action, prepared to do anything for me.

"Oh, no thanks. We aren't close. I don't think he wants to see me anyway."

I was barely aware of what was going on around me. My brain just couldn't process that my father, who I hadn't spoken to since before I graduated high school, was in the intensive care unit.

Will gently lifted my chin so my eyes would meet his. He looked so concerned for me that I wanted to spill my guts to him.

"Why wouldn't he want to see you?"

Before I knew it, the words were simply falling out of my mouth.

"Because I caused my mother's death."

Will looked shocked. "What do you mean? Why haven't you told me this before?"

"I don't talk about it. She died when I was 16 and since then, I've barely spoken to or seen my dad."

He looked at me, releasing my chin from his gentle grasp. I refused to move my gaze however. I knew if I looked away, I'd lose my nerve. I needed to get this out and tell someone about what happened.

"One day I was home sick from school. My mom was off work from the hospital that day and decided to take care of me. I had a high fever and she left to get me some medicine. I don't remember much of that day because I was asleep due to the fever, but I was woken up the next day and told by a family friend that my mom had been in a car accident on her way to the store. She died immediately. We couldn't even have an open casket funeral for her, so I never got to see her again. She died because of me." I whispered, unable to summon enough effort to speak the words normally. It almost felt like speaking any louder was blasphemous.

"That wasn't your fault Annie. You couldn't help that you got sick." He cradled my face in one of his large hands. I rested my face in his grasp, stealing comfort from the touch.

"My father thought so. From that day onward, he barely looked at me, let alone spoke to me. I haven't even spoken to him since before I graduated high school. Do you want to know the last thing he said to me? 'I'm going to be working late. Don't cause trouble.' That's it. He hates me for what happened. The only thing he loves in his life right now is his job as a cop. He didn't even reach out when I was attacked."

I felt the bitter hurt spreading through my veins like poison yet again as it had many times since my mom died. I tried to stop it from spreading, but it felt like I was drowning in it. Will's warm touch was the only thing keeping me above the surface.

I studied his eyes, searching for his reaction. I desperately hoped he wouldn't blame me for my father hating me like I did. I needed his support right now more than anything. To my surprise all I saw shining in his eyes was sorrow, compassion, and gentleness. He grabbed me, holding me to him in a hug that warmed my soul.

"I'm so sorry you've had to go through that alone." His warm breath tickled my ear as he whispered those words.

I felt tears forming in my eyes at the kindness he was showing me. That sort of kindness was the sort I never showed myself. In my mind, if my dad couldn't even forgive me, then why would I even try?

I cried into Will's shirt quietly, trying to tamp it down quickly. I was awfully aware that I'd cried on Will three times now in the last two weeks. I just couldn't help it, he was my safe place.

"Maybe you should try reaching out to your father. I know it will be painful but after these kind of life changing things people are usually more open to change. It might be time."

I pulled away from him and gave him a watery smile. "Thanks for caring Will. I guess I could try. I just don't think he'll want to speak to me."

I remained in his hold for a while longer until I felt I'd gotten a hold of my emotions a bit more. A deep, calming breath filled my lungs and I finally pulled away from Will's chest.

"What kind of work did your dad do as a cop anyway?" Will's question surprised me. I didn't figure he'd care to know about that.

"He is a detective. He did mostly narcotics work, I believe. He didn't really bring work home with him. Back when our family was happy, he was the best dad; he was silly and always there for me when I needed him. One time I asked him why he didn't talk about work and he told me it was because it was too dark and he didn't want to dim my light." I smiled bitterly at the memory.

"What was your mom like at that time, if you don't mind talking about it?" He asked cautiously.

I never minded talking about the good times with my mom. Those were cherished memories that I was happy to relive. "She was warm, happy, and so selfless. She was an ER nurse, and she would have given everything for those she helped. She loved taking me to the park when I was a kid and swinging with me. If she had been able, she would have wanted more kids to take care of. As I grew up she let me have my freedom while telling me how she felt about my decisions. She never judged or made me feel bad for my mistakes, she just listened and helped me face the consequences. I remember the first time I tried a beer. I was 15 and a friend offered me one, so I tried it. I hated the taste and I got kind of drunk off it. I wanted to hide it from her but she caught me sneaking in that night and told me she wasn't angry at me. She said I could make my own decisions but she hoped I would be more responsible and safer about it in the future. She was the best parent."

I wiped the single tear dripping down my cheek at the happy memories and looked up at Will. He was smiling and nodding.

"She sounds like a wonderful mom. I'm so glad you got those good years."

I agreed with him. Even with all the pain I'd faced later, those early years were worth it.

"What about your family? We've never really talked about it. I don't want to be the only one spilling their guts." His expression turned uncomfortable.

"Oh, well—"

He got cut off by my phone ringing. I checked it and nearly did a double take when I realized it was my dad calling. I quickly answered the phone, feeling a bit apprehensive.

"Hello?"

"Hi. The doctor told me you wanted me to call you once I woke up." A jolt shot through me as I heard his gravelly voice for the first time in almost two years. It brought to mind his face, time-worn, with laughter lines that haven't been used in too many years.

"I'm glad you're alive Dad. I was worried when I heard what happened."

There was a brief pause. "I was worried about you too. Are you doing okay now?"

I supposed this was the best thing he could have said considering how he's been. "Yeah I'm doing okay. I'm recovering pretty quickly according to the doctor."

"That's good. Glad to hear it."

I let a second pass before summoning the courage to ask him the question on my mind. "Listen, Dad, I was thinking maybe we could get together and talk. It's been so long since we've really talked to each other like we used to—"

"No, that's not a good idea Annalise. I think we should just keep on the way we have been."

For once, I felt like pushing my luck. "But we've both been injured and I want to fix our relationship—"

"Annalise—"

"—before it's too late. I think if we try we can really—"

"Annalise—"

"—make this right. I know you blame me for—"

"I don't want to see you!" He yelled, finally stopping my word vomit. "Just stay away. I'm glad you're alive but I don't want a relationship with you. Leave me alone, alright? Bye Annalise, don't call me again."

Before I could say or do anything the phone hung up. I froze in shock. It was one thing to think he felt those things, but it was completely different to hear him say them himself. He really doesn't want to see me.

Will was still sitting across from me, staring at me in concern as I put down my phone, a dead look in my eyes.

"What happened?"

"I was right. He doesn't want me in his life."

Those words spoke volumes by the look on his face. He seemed sad for me, but I didn't want pity right now. As a matter of fact, I didn't want to feel anything at all.

"Are you going to be alright?" He asked, grabbing my hand.

I slipped it out of his grasp before standing carefully and beginning to walk down the hall to my room. Before I was out of the room, I stopped, not looking at Will.

"Yeah, I'll be fine. I just need to be alone right now."

I didn't wait for an answer, instead shutting myself in my room where I could bury my feelings in peace.

I let some time pass before coming back out. I wanted to let myself become accustomed to the hurt so I could forget it was there for a while. This was the first time I'd ever heard my dad say those words, though I knew they were true for some time. His cruelty astounded me to a degree I didn't know was possible. I thought if he didn't want to see me, he would have let me down gentler. Maybe I did press too hard for what I wanted, but that shouldn't be an excuse for what he said. Regardless, I wouldn't be forgetting this pain. I vowed to myself I would never give him the chance to hurt me again. I would keep all the pieces of myself away from him.

Once I'd come to that conclusion and stopped the tears, I walked back out to find Will where he'd been earlier: watching TV. I didn't speak, I simply sat next to him and got out my phone. I figured it was about time to text Jaime and thank him for the date. I was vividly aware that Will was sitting next to me, but I wasn't going to allow that to stop me. It seemed like we'd come to a truce about Jaime. I still didn't know why he disliked him so much, but he wouldn't force the issue if I didn't.

Hey. Thanks for the great night.

He must have been watching his phone or something because he responded right away, making me smile.

You're welcome for the great night. I had a lot of fun. Sorry about the awkward morning though. Your friend seemed pissed. You okay?

I'm fine, and he was just surprised. I think he was worried I'd hurt my injuries or something. We should definitely get together again soon.

I blushed to myself at my forwardness. In my whole life, I had never been so forward but I couldn't help it. I really liked this guy and wanted him to know that. I drew Will's attention with my blush, though I didn't meet his gaze. I kept my eyes on my phone until he turned his eyes away. Even though we had an agreement, I didn't want to risk it.

Definitely. I love a girl who knows what she wants ;). How about we plan another date for Saturday? We can hang out again at your place.

That sounds great, and for the record I'm not normally so sure about what I want.

Then I'm glad I'm the reason you are sure. See you on Saturday :).

There was so much going on in my mind that I felt I was about to burst. Turning to Will, I opened my mouth before thinking better of it and closing it again. He definitely didn't want to hear about this.

He turned to me, eyebrows raised. His expression was a bit disgruntled, yet willing. "Go ahead, purge. I'm listening."

I couldn't help the smile forming on my face. He was such a good friend, listening even when he didn't want to.

"Jaime asked me out again. We're hanging out here again on Saturday and I'm really excited!" I hurried and spilled, then took a deep breath. "Okay, sorry, I'm good now."

He sent a reluctant smile my way. "At the very least, I'm glad he's smart enough to offer to hang out here."

I was surprised. I wasn't expecting him to have anything good to say at all. Will really was trying to be nice for my sake. For him, with his pride issues, that was saying a lot. Quickly before he could realize what I was doing, I leaned over and pressed my lips to his cheek, darting back to my spot once I was finished and grinning. He blushed hard, putting a hand to his cheek and pretending to wipe my kiss away.

"Yeah, yeah, I know you're grateful for my mere presence, but keep your lips to yourself."

In that moment of joy, I realized I'd found a new family.