The Unwanted Goodbye

I lifted my gaze.

“And I’m sorry,” I said.

Lydia’s eyes were full of disbelief. Hurt. Confusion.

“I’m sorry,” I repeated, my voice breaking. “I’m sorry we can’t be friends. I’m sorry I said all those things. I’m sorry I have to walk away from you. I didn’t want this. I swear I didn’t.”

I turned to leave. But then, she caught my hand.

“Don’t go!” Lydia called out, her voice catching. “What’s the hu