Ethan took a deep breath, steadying himself. He needed to be firm, for both their sakes.
"Maria, listen to me," he said gently but firmly. "I know you're hurting. I know you're confused. But this is it can't happen. You don't need a night with me to feel love. You need time to heal, to find yourself again."
Maria looked away, biting her lip. She knew he was right, but that didn't change how she felt.
Ethan reached for her hand, holding it in a way that was comforting but distant. "You're not alone, Maria. I won't abandon you, but this... whatever you're hoping for it's not the answer."
Tears welled in her eyes again, but this time, she didn't fight him. She just nodded.
"Let go home," he said softly.
Maria didn't resist as Ethan led her to his car, opening the door for her. Steph seeing all this wondered what they had talked about. Ethan dismissed him as he sat in the car. "We will talk tomorrow," he said.
