The next day, Felix waited outside Debbie's school,
leaning casually against his car. As soon as she saw him, her heart skipped a beat.
"Felix," she said, surprised. "What are you doing here?"
"I wanted to see you," he admitted, his usual
confidence softened by vulnerability. "I know things are complicated with Pasco, but I need you to know
something—I can't go another day pretending I'm okay without you."
Debbie's breath caught in her throat. "Felix, I—"
He stepped closer, his eyes locking with hers. "You
deserve someone who puts you first, Debbie. Someone who doesn't take your love for granted. And if you'll let me, I want to be that person."
Tears welled in her eyes, but she didn't respond. She wasn't ready—yet.