บท 610: The Cost

Caleb felt her heart rate increase as a fearful unease swept her body.

Ashleigh swallowed and then backed away from the plate. She turned and carried the tray to the desk, setting it down slowly and keeping her back to him as she let the desk support her weight.

“Ash…?” Caleb called to her.

“I didn’t think it would work…” she whispered.

He stepped closer to her, wanting to reach out, to calm and comfort her.

“You didn’t think what would work?” he asked softly.

“I’m sorry, Caleb,” she whispered.

He could hear the tears in her voice.

“I’m sorry… I shouldn’t have…” her voice cracked, and she let out a heavy sob.

Caleb wanted to give her room, to allow her the space she might need. It had been five years for her but only a few days for him.

But seeing her cry, feeling her pain. He couldn’t bear it.

He closed the distance and turned her to face him, seeing the tears that ran down her face for only a moment before he wrapped his arms around her, holding her close.