you didn’t understand how declan had to experience being cheated on. especially by his own wife.

and then, for her to leave him? to put the blame on him when he was nothing but a good husband to her?

to leave him when she should be happy for him for his successes?

it hurt to witness that, as it did for everyone else that was around for it.

especially taggie, having to watch her mother leave them.

but, you know to keep your distance — the feelings you feel for him are too much for you, which is why you’ve been trying to move on with seb, who clearly cares deeply about you.

however, when you run into declan in the kitchen, seeing him drinking at the counter, you can’t just turn off your feelings and care for him.

“i’m… i’m sorry, declan. about maud. you deserve better than that.”

those words are all you can say, and all he can do is take in your words, but he only changes the subject instead to you, not wanting to focus on his heartache of being left by his wife, who he worshipped more than anything in the world.

“seb’s a nice boy — he’s good for you.”

all you can do is nod, hating how much your feelings are still deep inside of you, at the end of the day.

but then, he’s walking away, heading out of the kitchen, and you can’t help the words that blurt out, which makes him stop.

“only he’s not you.”

but, you immediately regret it and turn away from him. “oh, god, i don’t know why i just said that. i’m… not thinking straight.”

despite your whispered words, declan can’t control himself as he slowly approaches you, his own hidden feelings taking a hold of him.

until he’s behind you, struggling to keep his hands off of you, and he’s suddenly sobering up fast.

and the tension is heavy between you both.