Page 236 of Once in a Lifetime, Part 2

“I didn’t break up with you.”

Mano let out a sharp breath. “Then what did you do? When you told me to go to London? To pack my things from your place? When you said that even if I stayed, we wouldn’t live together?”

Ody felt something twist inside him. But he said nothing.

Mano’s expression hardened. “I’m taking my things and getting out,” he snapped. “So get the hell out of my face until I’m done.” He turned and stormed into the bedroom.

Ody dropped onto the couch, his mind spinning.

Should I tell him the truth… even if he doesn’t feel the same? Should I ask him to stay?

A hookup… I was just a hookup that lasted longer…

The way they met flashed through his mind. The Mano who never stayed. Never got attached.

Inside the bedroom, drawers opened and slammed.

Why isn’t he stopping me? Why did he kiss me like that? What does he want from me? A zipper dragged shut. Why are you hurting me like this, Ody?

A moment later, Mano stepped out, the bag slung over his shoulder.

Ody was still on the couch. The second he saw him, he shot to his feet.

Everything was packed.

He’s leaving…

They stood there, staring at each other.

Say something. Anything. Before I walk out.

“You… you got everything?” Ody asked, his eyes betraying him.

Mano looked away. “I got everything. Don’t worry.”

Ody swallowed, but no words came.

“I’m leaving.” He stepped toward the door, his hand closing around the handle.

Ody moved without thinking, taking a step toward him.

Mano turned. He waited. “What?” he asked, like he didn’t care.

“Um…” Ody’s voice barely came out. A hookup…

Talk to me. Please, Ody. Tell me not to go.

“When… when are you leaving?” Ody asked, staring at the floor.

“In three days,” Mano said.

“So soon?” His head snapped up.

Please… just say it. Tell me to stay. I’ll drop everything. Right now.

Silence stretched between them.

Mano couldn’t take it anymore. “Good night.” He opened the door and walked out.