Ryan was about to stop Arwen from walking away like that, his hand already reaching out instinctively, but Delyth's grip tightened on his arm, grounding him in place. "Ryan, the doctor …" Her voice trembled with barely concealed desperation, and her eyes glistened as if clinging to the last thread of hope she had left.
Ryan glanced down at her, and felt his resolve wavering. He hesitated, feeling caught between Delyth's need and the cold finality of Arwen's retreating figure. He remembered the promise he had given to Zeke — to always look after Delyth and be there whenever she needed him. And right now, she needs him the most.
"Please," Delyth whispered, her voice softer now and her vulnerability very clear in her tone. "I can't do this alone. I can't live without dance. Zeke has gone, and now I only have you. I need you by my side ."
