Can’t Win Me Back by Ginger Sue

As Landon entered the living hall, his eyes reddened from the emotions swelling within him. Everything appeared unchanged, as if nothing had occurred.

A gentle voice, once a source of comfort, broke the silence. "Mr. Landon, you're back."

"I'm back," he choked out. His smile, though warm, faded as he realized there would be no reply to follow.

With a heavy thud, Landon's knees buckled beneath him. He crumpled onto the floor, his once sturdy frame folding inward. Silent sobs wracked his body as he curled into a ball.

"Landon!"

"Mr. Landon!"

Jasper and Jordan rushed to his side; concern etched on their faces. But the only response was the quiet sound of wet tears hitting the ground.

in his arms,

and I will help you gather Angelina's belongings. You don't have to force yourself to do

struggled to rise, using his arms

ascend the staircase, Jasper's

would always bring a flamboyant grin to Landon's face. She wasn't just an employee; she was family—a

room where Angelina had

bed, a wardrobe, and a table. Its simplicity belied the fact that it had once been occupied by a young

hesitant to disturb the sanctity of the space, remained by the door as Landon gently brushed his fingertips across the desk's surface,

as if untouched by time. Tears welled in his eyes as memories

said, his voice tinged with emotion as he lifted out a chili-red