[EVE]
"I know it wasn't your fault," I continued, trying to steady my voice. "Neither of us wanted any of it to happen. And . . . I forgave you. Months ago, when I finally understood what you went through—I forgave you."
I looked away, swallowing the lump in my throat.
"But forgiveness doesn't mean I want you back in my life. After everything . . . after realizing how deeply you could affect me—how easily you could break me—I don't think my heart can survive that again. You were the first person I truly let in, and when you left, it felt like the world collapsed under my feet. I can't go through that again. I won't."
I met his eyes, my vision blurred with tears I refused to shed. "So please . . . just go. Leave me alone. I'm happy now. I've rebuilt my life from the pieces you left behind. Let's move on—separately."
Cole didn't move.
