Asher’s POV
I wanted to tell her I accepted we couldn’t be together, that I’d step back if it meant those tears would vanish from her eyes. But the words wouldn’t come—because they’d be a lie. She was my world, the only reason my heart still beat. I’d die for her without hesitation. So why should I let her go now?
Her gaze locked on mine, unblinking, desperate—pleading—for me to say something. Tessa’s quiet sobs filled the room like an echo of all the pain we couldn’t escape.
“Bella, no,” I said, my voice cutting the silence. Her brows knitted in confusion.
“I know you want me out of your life,” I continued, my throat tightening. “And I can’t help but blame myself for everything that happened—after I swore I’d protect you, after I swore nothing would touch you.” My words trembled, each
