You storm into the room, barely able to keep your voice steady. "You were looking at her like you were in love with her!" The accusation lingers, sharp and raw.

Gabriel, caught off guard, slowly lowers his gaze, his jaw clenched. His eyes meet yours, piercing, yet carrying something deeper. "Jesus Christ, woman!" he mutters, almost to himself, before taking a step closer. "I look at you like I’m in love with you."

The words hit you like a punch to the gut. You try to process what he just said, a flicker of hope twisting painfully with doubt. "I— Wait. What?” Your voice is a whisper now, barely more than a breath.

But Gabriel’s expression changes. It hardens, as if he’s said something he didn’t mean to, something that slipped past his usual defenses. His hand clenches, then relaxes as he exhales. "Nothing. Never mind," he murmurs, brushing past you toward the door. "I have to go."

You reach out, fingers brushing against his arm. "Gabi—."

He hesitates for a fraction of a second, but then pulls away, leaving you standing there, stunned, the weight of his words echoing in the silence.

He’s already gone.