"Heh." A low, bitter laugh slipped out from the corner of Ethan's mouth. He had prepared himself for this moment, told himself over and over this was how things would end-but still, his chest clenched tight like something had been ripped open inside.
It felt like a hot, invisible blade had slashed through his heart, the pain spreading, climbing up his throat, welled up in his eyes until they flushed red. He didn't wait to pull himself back together before speaking again.
"I've got something else later, let's just wrap this up." His tone was calm like nothing had happened. When he saw Celestia visibly relax, like a weight had lifted off her, he felt strangely relieved too. The ache inside was still there, sharp and raw, but weirdly, he felt... lighter.
"Before I go... can I have
