Chapter 249: Silly Girl, Don't Cry

He clutched his injured hand, watching as she buried her head in her knees, her sorrow and guilt evident. A sudden, sharp pain pierced his heart.

As if compelled by an unseen force, he stepped forward, wrapping his injured hand around her back and pulling her into a tight embrace.

"Don't cry, silly girl," he murmured, though his own eyes were brimming with tears.

"If there's anyone in this world who makes you unhappy, tell me, and I'll make sure they regret it. If there's anyone who makes you sad, tell me, and I'll take you away. And if there's someone you can't bear to be without, tell me, and no matter where they are, I'll bring them to you."

He held her as tightly as if it were a farewell hug, reluctant to let go. Yet, no matter how much he wished otherwise, he had to release her.

Because the one she loved wasn't him.