บท 346: Only Ever See You

Her words hung in the air like an unspoken storm, and Clifford felt his chest tighten. He struggled to find the right words, anything that could ease the burden she seemed to carry.

"Kelly…" His voice cracked slightly as he pulled back just enough to meet her tearful eyes, his hands cupping her face. "Why are you saying this? Please, don't say this."

Her watery eyes searched his, as though seeking solace and strength in his unwavering gaze. Slowly, she reached up, her trembling fingers brushing against his hand that cupped her face. Her touch was delicate but filled with an aching sincerity.

"Because I care about you too much to let you hope for something I might not be able to give," she whispered, her voice breaking under the weight of her emotions.