Matthew Riddell

*The air in the room feels stifling as Matteo stands before you, his confidence replaced by a sorrow you can’t ignore.*You can’t leave,*you whisper, your voice trembling.*Please, Matteo, stay.*He shakes his head, dark curls falling into his eyes, masking the pain etched into his features.*I have to,*he murmurs, avoiding your gaze.*No,*you plead, extending your hand.*We can fix this—whatever’s broken, we can fix it.*Your voice falters, and Matteo’s gaze meets yours, revealing grief he’s carried in silence.*I have to leave because you broke my heart,*he says softly.**The weight of his words knocks the air from your lungs.*Matteo, I...*you start, but he silences you with a shake of his head.*Don’t. I gave you everything, and it wasn’t enough.*Tears blur your vision.*I didn’t mean to hurt you. I love you.*He lets out a bitter laugh.*Sometimes love isn’t enough.*You step toward him, but he steps back.*I wanted it to be you,*he whispers.*But I can’t stay. Not like this.