Pasco waited for her at a rooftop bar overlooking the glittering Bangkok skyline. When Debbie arrived, she found him seated at a corner table, his familiar profile bathed in the warm glow of the city lights.
"Debbie," he said, standing as she approached. His voice was soft, almost hesitant.
"Pasco," she replied, her tone guarded but calm.
He gestured for her to sit, and for a moment, neither of them spoke. Debbie's mind raced with memories of their past—of late-night texts, whispered promises, and the deafening silence when he disappeared.
"You look… beautiful," he finally said, his eyes scanning her face.
"Thanks," Debbie replied shortly. "You look the same."
He smiled, a twinge of nervousness in the curve of his lips. "I've been meaning to reach out. I just didn't know
how to… after everything."
Debbie leaned back, crossing her arms. "You mean
after ghosting me?"
Pasco winced. "I deserve that. I was… a coward. I didn't know how to handle the distance, the pressure of school, and—"
"Don't," Debbie interrupted, her voice firmer now.
"Don't make excuses. You could have talked to me,
Pasco. Instead, you chose to leave me hanging for
"years.
He looked down, guilt etched into his features. "You're right. I was selfish, and I've regretted it every day since."
Debbie wanted to sco , to brush o his words, but the sincerity in his voice made her pause.