Bab 177: 177. Last moments II

A sad smile slightly pulled the sides of Elaine's lips up and she slowly nodded.

"I understand you perfectly, Hayford." She suddenly said in almost a whisper. And she did mean it. "Thanks for being honest with me."

Hayford looked at her, noticing how hard she was trying to mask her raw emotions behind that fake smile that was on her face now. But she looked away and withdrew her hands from his own before placing the glass on the side table. She rose to her feet and straightened her dress, trying to maintain the smile on her face and not break down again.

"I think I should get going now." Elaine's voice was a bit strained, but she cleared her throat and smiled.

Hayford got up after her, following her every step with his eyes. They took slow steps to the door, and when they got there, Elaine turned to look at him for one last time.