Requiem of a Broken Heart

Chapter 94

Chapter 94:

“You’re squashing me!” she complained, trying to free herself from his weight.

Brian quickly rose to his feet, giving her space.

In the dim light, his tall figure seemed imposing, and as he settled next to her, Rachel finally took a deep breath, relieved to have some distance. “It’s late. You should go back and rest,” she said. “And if Tracy finds you here, you’re going to have to calm her down.”

Brian started to justify his stay, but Rachel cut him off. “Just leave. I don’t want to hear it.”

“Alright, I won’t say anything more. I’ll stay until you’re asleep, then I’ll go,” he replied.

“I can’t possibly sleep with you here,” Rachel retorted firmly.

With a sigh, Brian conceded and made to leave. His movements were slow, his injured leg clearly affecting his usual graceful stride.

Watching him struggle in such an uncharacteristic way made Rachel feel conflicted. She had to remind herself not to soften. Why should she care about his condition? Pity was not something she could afford to feel.

approached the door, he paused and looked back

Rachel, snug under the blanket, her eyes vivid in the low

his mouth to speak, but Rachel turned away sharply, presenting only her back to

words he had intended to say. As he

Her voice was

glimmer of hope shone in his

and approached him. Her tone remained calm. “Could you possibly delay your

he responded instantly, assuming she wanted

like to have dinner with

crossed Brian’s face at her

“Is that the reason you want me

“I understand you’re planning to leave with Tracy. If it’s too much trouble, never mind. I’ll

turned away, bracing herself

Do I

his agreement, she dreaded the thought of