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They should have Years ago Many times

“But Gabi—”

“You need to leave her alone now She’ll be fine She just needs some time”

This was it, then His worst night with Gabi—it had already ruined their friendship

And still, his need didn’t dissipate It intensified “I can’t, Marie”

He was being driven by soic Or even desire

“Of course you can I’o”

He’d have liked to believe he’d have done as Marie asked if he hadn’t heard the sniffle He didn’t think so, though

“What was that?” he asked, looking toward the archway that led to the girls’ living room

“Nothing”

There were no lights on in there

But

He strode toward the room anyway

“Liao in there You can’t always just do what you want—”

Marie trailed behind hi from the , Gabi’s silhouette, her head and arms hunched over her knees