Chapter 17: One Mystery Solved

They walked back to the car, a tired Rupert following behind on the leash.

"I know it's not easy for us to just be friends," Emily said, seeing that Byron looked a bit disappointed, "but trust me, it's for the best."

"I don't understand," Byron said, turning towards her as he stopped walking, "We have so much going for us. How can you deny it?"

"You're not ready for a relationship, Byron."

"What makes you say that?" he asked, looking genuinely confused.

Emily was not sure if she should be honest with him about her reasons, but she didn't want him to know how much she knew about his depression. If she revealed that, she would have to reaveal that she had spoken to his mother, and it was best to let that sleeping dog lie.

"Can you just trust me on this?" she asked, "I can't explain it right now, but I know we should be friends."

"I see," Byron said, envelping her in a one-armed hug, "you're sad and lonely and need a friend."

She laughed, pushing him away, "No, you're sad and lon