His Vulnerability

Michael didn’t move. He’d known Brian too long to take his tantrums seriously. “Sammy’s here,” he said calmly. Brian’s head turned slightly. “Did you see that girl on your way in?” Michael nodded once. “Good,” Brian muttered bitterly. “Tell them I just raped her. Give her the role. I’m not attending the meeting.” He dropped back on the bed, dragging the quilt halfway over himself and the blood stain as if covering it would erase the event that had transpired. His breaths came harsh and uneven. Michael’s expression darkened. “You’re not a rapist, Brian,” he said quietly but firmly. Brian’s bloodshot eyes snapped open. “Oh yeah? Did she smile at you when you saw her?” His voice cracked, the guilt leaking through. “Tell me, isn’t it rape when she’s crying and shaking like that? I thought she was moaning, damn it!” Michael stepped closer. “Don’t torture yourself. She just lost her virginity. That kind of reaction is… natural, especially without proper foreplay. You're meeting the girl only