39. So Long

“I can't take this anymore,” Mrs. Carlos groaned, turning on her heel and storming out of the room. The sharp sound of her heels echoed through the hall, punctuating her retreat.

Nora followed quickly, her face twisted in frustration. She shot one last glare at Ivan before leaving, but said nothing. That left just Ivan and me, standing in the middle of a room full of people, all watching, waiting for the next move. I wrapped my arms around myself, feeling exposed, uncertain.

I knew I should leave. There was nothing more to say or do, so I turned, ready to walk away. But before I could take a step, Ivan grabbed my hand, holding me in place.

“I won't let you leave me again,” he said, his voice low and filled with emotion. I looked at him, and for the first time, I saw tears glistening in his eyes. He was breaking right in front of me, and it sent a surge of confusion through my heart.

Ivan turned to the crowd, still holding my hand, and took a deep breath, as if trying to compose himse