The Space Between Almosts

He was born into power.
She built herself from nothing.

Santy has always known what his future looks like. Campaign posters, handshakes, a surname heavy enough to open doors before he even knocks.

Thalia learned early that doors do not open for girls like her. If she wanted something, she would have to earn it. Prove she deserved it.

They were never meant to stand on the same side of a room. But somewhere between hospital hallways and quiet conversations that lasted longer than they should have, they found something simple: Each other.

For a while, it felt easy. Private. Safe.

Until the world started watching. Until loving her was no longer just a choice, but a liability.

Because sometimes the hardest choice isn't between right and wrong. It's between the person you love...and the future you were born to protect.

And sometimes,the space between almost choosing someone and actually choosing them, is where everything falls apart.