"Let's end this relationship," you declared, the words hanging heavy between you.

Mash stared back, his typically stoic facade barely concealing the flicker of concern in his amber eyes. A wave of shock rooted him to the spot, his mind racing with questions. Had he done something wrong? Was there some way he had displeased you? In his heart, he knew he had given his all to this relationship, your first and his. Despite his inexperience, he'd poured genuine effort into caring for you—be it through his homemade cream puffs, defending you from adversaries, or sharing his textbooks. He wondered, anxiously, if you desired more than he could offer.

Meanwhile, your patience had worn thin. Despite Mash's well-meaning gestures, you craved deeper, more meaningful expressions of love. His failure to initiate dates, gift flowers on Valentine's Day, or reciprocate your verbal affections left you feeling neglected. Each "I love you" met with silence had only deepened the chasm between you.

Yet, for Mash, his affection was never in question. Struggling to navigate his emotions, he found himself dumbfounded by your suggestion to part ways. The discomfort and displeasure that surged through him were testament to his deep care for you. Facing you, his stoicism remained unbroken, though a slight tilt of his head betrayed his confusion.

"Why?" he asked, his voice carrying a hint of pain beneath its impassive exterior.