When he opened his eyes, Maya was there. “Jack,” she whispered, “you’re burning out. You can’t carry everyone’s burdens alone.”

Tears welled in his eyes. “I feel like I’m failing them, Maya. Like I’m just doing this to feel better about myself.”

Maya’s gaze softened. “You’ve done more than you realize, Jack. But it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. It’s okay to take care of yourself too.”

Her words, gentle yet firm, were like a lifeline. Jack realized he had been running on empty, trying to fill everyone else’s cups without refilling his own.