AFTER THE SILENCE – CONTINUED

Fred took a moment to gather his thoughts and continued.

— I never meant to lie to you. I truly didn't. But sometimes things happen, and a person loses control. My mistakes, my indecision... this is one of them.

Sheila stared at him for a moment, then closed her eyes. The pain and anger in her eyes tightened Fred's heart, but she didn't say anything.

— Don't try to explain it to me. It won't change anything. — Sheila said with a trembling voice. — I don't have the strength to listen anymore.

Fred stood still for a few seconds, then took a step forward, closer to her.

— Sheila, you've always been the most important person to me, but I built a world full of lies between us. And now that world has collapsed, and I don't know how to deal with it. But I'm trying to understand how you will cope with it.

Sheila turned her face towards him, but for a few moments, she didn't speak. More than her words, her expression said it all. This was a moment when hope had truly faded. She simply took a deep breath and took a step back.

— Fred, what can you say to me now? There's nothing left between us.

Fred's heart tightened. He had never felt so lost and sad in his life. But finally, he looked into Sheila's eyes and gave one last attempt.

— So... is this really the end?

Sheila remained silent for a while, then lowered her head. That was her answer.

Fred bowed his head helplessly, but his eyes still didn't want to leave her. Maybe he was making the hardest decision of his life, but nothing would change now.

After a while, he turned and walked back towards the school, but the emptiness inside him followed him.

This chapter explores the complex emotions and tension between Fred and Sheila, with their relationship facing a critical turning point. Neither of them fully knows how to move forward, but the journey ahead promises challenges and uncertainty.