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“No … please …”

“He’s right, Blakely I wanted you But you fuckingin his hand “And as usts me …” My body trembles, but I can’t move No matter how loud my mind screams to I can’t leave Ryat “If I can’t have you, then no one can”

I’m hit hat feels like a Mack truck The force knocks me back into the front door My body shakes like an earthquake as loud bangs go off in the distance I can’t breathe My body’s being crushed Lifting my arms, I feel soft material I openup, I reen eyes “Ryat … what?”

Realization returns that Ryat is the one crushing ainstup blood

“You’re okay,” he assures ed breath “You’re okay,” he repeats like he’s trying to convince both of us

I look at his white shirt, and I see the blood covering it “Oh, God” I gasp “Ryat” He’s been shot

“Blake” He reaches up and grabscold and clammy “I’m sorry …”

Tears sting my eyes while I try and catch my breath “Don’tDon’t do this”

“I love you, Blake” He whispers

“No No No Don’t!” I shout, gripping his bloodstained shirt “Why?” Why would he do this to us? To me?

“You think I’d kill for you, but not die for you?” He shakes his head gently “Silly girl” His words are getting softer I can barley hear the in my ears

“Ryat …” I sob

“You deserved better,” he whispers

Tears fall down my cheeks and I lick my wet lips

“I’m sorry I wasn’t better”