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“I want to so fucking badly”

A tear catches on her lashes “But you can’t” It’s not a question

I answer anyway “I’m not sure what that feels like”

She nods, accepting my explanation

Dee it inadequate

A tear rolls down her cheek Catches on my thumb

She blinks and her lashes are curtained with them

I wrap my arms around her Pull her closer Breathe in every ounce of her

That coconut shampoo

And sohton

She sinks into my touch

She cries onto my suit jacket

Waves crash onto the beach Moonlight bounces off the ocean Stars shine against the dark sky

“I know I said I’d be patient But I can’t” Her voice is a whisper A promise A plea “I’m sorry, Ryan But I can’t do this anymore”

“Leigh…”