"Andrew, I love you. But..." I said, looking at Andrew.
Andrew looked at me seriously.
"But ... my affection ... for Ernest is much deeper ... You are my best friend. Without you, maybe I would never feel a deep friendship ..." I said, looking at Andrew.
Andrew nodded sadly. "I understand ... as I promised ... I will always protect you as a friend, no matter what your answer is ..."
"Sorry ..." I said with a choked throat.
Andrew shook his head, trying to smile. "It is okay. I ... already guessed this answer... "
Ernest approached me slowly and held my hand.
"Do you want to be with me? You already know me, don't you, ma belle?" asked Ernest incredulously.
I nodded. "Yes, I want to be by your side. I want to be a strength for you. So you don't have to feel lonely a
