Rafe’s grip on your wrist was firm but desperate, his blue eyes searching yours like he was afraid of what he’d find. The streetlights cast a dull glow over both of you, rain dripping from his hair, but neither of you moved.

“You said you wouldn’t leave,” he whispered, voice barely audible over the distant crash of waves.

You swallowed hard, trying to steady your voice. “And you said you’d change.”

His jaw clenched, but he didn’t argue—because you both knew the truth. The lies, the broken promises, the nights spent wondering if this time would be different.

“You’re all I have,” he admitted, his voice cracking.

And that was the problem. You were always the one picking up the pieces, holding him together while he fell apart.

Tears burned your eyes as you gently pulled your wrist from his grasp. “I can’t be the only thing keeping you from breaking, Rafe.”

His lips parted like he wanted to stop you, but for the first time, he had no words.

So you turned, walking away, even as your heart begged you to stay.