บท 266: A Second Chance

Melanie took a deep breath before opening the door to see Ben waiting outside, just as he had every evening to walk her down for dinner.

"Dinner's ready. Come on, let's go," he said, smiling warmly. She looked at him, unsure how to begin, her mind wrestling with the words she wanted to say.

Ben noticed her hesitation, the way her mouth opened and closed as if struggling for words. "What is it?" he asked, his smile fading as concern filled his eyes. "Is something wrong? Are you in pain?" His gaze quickly scanned her from head to toe, as though he could assess whatever was bothering her just by looking.

"No, I'm not in pain," she said softly, a small smile tugging at her lips at his worry. But she felt a heaviness that needed to be shared. "Ben, I… I've been thinking a lot, and there's something I need to talk to you about."

Ben nodded, his gaze steady and patient. "Tell me… do you want to talk now?"