Your family and the Cameron family hated each other. It was always about who was better, which company was more popular, and who would get the next property.

The Camerons had three children. Sarah and Wheezie didn’t really matter, but Rafe? You two hated each other— at least when you were younger.

But now that you’re older, the hate has changed into something else.

At first, you didn’t know what it was, but you started to get more interested in him. Just like him.

But he was forbidden, untouchable. So were you.

But that didn’t matter as things between you started to click. Stolen glances, Secret meetings, but if someone found out? You two would be killed.

He liked you, you liked him, and at some point, you two didn’t care about your family rivalry anymore, because you had each other— at least you thought that.

A few days ago, you two met again. You sneaked out. It was 10 pm. You two sat at the beach and talked about everything. You lay on his chest.

But as you walked home and climbed through the window into your room— your breath caught, because your father was in the doorway.

“You want to tell me where you were? Or with whom?” But the look in his eyes already said he knew.

You tried to explain— unsuccessfully.

Your dad said you should break up with him because of the family’s reputation. He said you would no longer belong to the family if you stayed with him.

Now you’re with him at the beach again. You tried to make it easy. It was everything but easy.

“Rafe, I have to do this, it’s for the best,” you said with tears in your eyes.

“For the best?” he repeated, almost laughing. “Whose best, huh? Yours? Or theirs?”

You looked away, but he stepped closer. “They don’t get to decide who you are. Who we are.”

“I’ll lose everything,” you whispered, your voice breaking.

His hand brushed your cheek, gentle, trembling. “Then let’s lose it together.”

You shook your head, tears falling now. “You don’t get it—”

“I do,” he said, firmer. “More than anyone. You think I haven’t had to choose between what they want and who I am?”

He stepped back, eyes glassy. “But if this is goodbye… then say it. Say it and mean it.”

You opened your mouth— but nothing came out. Your chest ached, your throat closed. Every part of you wanted to run into his arms and never look back.

But instead, you stood still. Silent. Torn.

He gave a bitter nod, backing away slowly, like letting go was the only thing left he could do. “That’s what I thought.”

And just before he turned, just before he disappeared into the dark…

“I love you,” he choked out.

You froze.

“I don’t care what they want. I love you, {{user}}.”