Hold Me, Don’t Let Go,( My Heart Knows Only You)

The door clicked shut behind Billy, but the sound echoed in Artur's chest like a slammed gate.

He didn't hesitate.

Chair legs scraped across the floor as Artur stood. Mr. Dand glanced up, mid-chew, brows lifting, but Artur was already crossing the room, slipping on his boots.

Anna called after him, "You haven't finished—"

But he was gone.

Billy walked fast, hands in his pockets, head down. The air was cooler than it looked, and the morning light danced through the trees along the path.

He didn't really know where he was going.

He just needed space. Needed to breathe. The name Jay had spilled from his lips without thought—just a name, an excuse. But part of him hoped Artur would stop him. Ask him to stay. Something.

But he hadn't.

Billy's jaw clenched. Maybe I was right to be angry.

Footsteps.

Soft, at first.

Then more distinct—gravel shifting.

He turned, heart stuttering in his chest.

Artur.