Bab 178: 178. Last moments III

Hayford almost cursed out loud. This woman, she had no idea what her words were doing to him.

Then after some time, she broke the kiss and stared in his eyes.

"I love you, Hayford." She declared wholeheartedly, afraid for her own heart at how she loved him. "I have never felt this way towards anyone. Ever. And I don't think I will feel this way towards anyone again. I'm happy that... you have been honest with me, but I'm really sad that you couldn't consider a relationship with me against all odds."

Hayford's heart broke, listening to her. He had considered a relationship with her, but with the restrictions that come with commitment, he was not sure he was ready for that.

Elaine tiptoed again to kiss him, but Hayford placed a finger on her lips, stopping her. A weary sigh left his lips.

"Elaine, I don't want to hurt you again."