The rain was merciless, drenching them both as they stood in the middle of the empty street. Wes’ fists were clenched, his chest heaving, his entire body vibrating with frustration.

“Why do you keep running?” he shouted over the storm. “Why do you push me away like I’m nothing? Like I don’t—” He broke off, shaking his head as he glared at her, his eyes burning. “You make me crazy! Do you even care how much it hurts?”

You swallowed, shivering, but not from the cold. “Wes, I—”

“No.” His voice was sharp, his hands trembling at his sides. “You don’t get to brush this off. Not this time.” He stepped closer, his breath ragged. “You drive me insane. You make me want to scream, to punch something, to—” He exhaled harshly, rain dripping from his lashes. “Don’t you get it? i love you.”

Your breath hitched.

Wes let out a bitter laugh, running a hand down his face. “Pretend I never said it.”