"Ric, I… I…" Cammy stammered, her lips moving soundlessly as her thoughts scrambled for the right words. Her chest tightened, and no matter how hard she tried, the explanation wouldn't come.
How could she explain this to Ric? He had been nothing but kind to her and Dylan, a steady pillar of support when she needed it most. The thought of hurting him twisted her heart into knots.
Before she could attempt to speak again, Ric closed the gap between them in a few measured steps. Without a word, he pulled her into his arms. The embrace was firm yet gentle, enveloping her in warmth. It wasn't suffocating, but protective, as if he were shielding her from a force she couldn't see.
"Ric…" Cammy whispered, her voice trembling as her cheek rested against his shoulder. She could feel the weight of his emotions in the way he held her. It was overwhelming, and her own emotions began to spill over. "I'm sorry… I'm so sorry…" she murmured, her voice breaking.