“I haven't made up my mind yet. Maybe I'll go abroad again.” Sanford sensed the melancholy in her tone, his grip on the steering wheel tightening reflexively.

A somber atmosphere settled between them as they continued their journey in silence. Eventually, Sanford pulled up to the hotel gate, bringing the car to a stop.

“Here we are," he announced softly.

Jaelyn unfastened her seat belt and glanced at him from the corner of her eye. Suddenly, an impulse took hold of her, and she leaned over, enveloping him in a heartfelt embrace.

"Sanford, I miss you so much. Can't we turn back time?" she pleaded, her longing evident in her voice.

Outside, the rain poured relentlessly, and the rhythmic swish of the windshield wipers accompanied the downpour.

Sanford's gaze shifted downward, his eyes filled with a mixture of emotions difficult to decipher.

“Jaelyn, let's Leave the past in the past. I have a girlfriend now." Tears welled up in Jaelyn's eyes as she Lifted her head, her voice quivering with emotion.

“Sanford, do you love her?"

Sanford pursed his lips and replied, "Yes."

“And what about me? Who do you Love more?"

Who did he love more?

Sanford pondered the question silently, his gaze fixated on her captivating countenance. After a while, he averted his eyes, unable to hold the intensity of the moment.

Jaelyn, we're no longer together. Please, Let go. You may get out of the car now," he said, his voice devoid of warmth. His handsome face remained impassive, revealing no trace of emotion.

Disappointment clouded Jaelyn's eyes as she reluctantly released her grip on him.

“I apologize for my inappropriate behavior just now. Thank you for driving me back."

If his evasion indicated his preference, did it mean he loved her more? A small smile played on Jaelyn's Lips as she reached for the car door, ready to step out into the rain-soaked world.

“Hold on a moment," Sanford interjected, halting her movements. A glimmer of hope illuminated Jaelyn's eyes as she turned to face him, anticipation radiating from her.

"It's raining outside. Take the umbrella," Sanford offered, handing her an umbrella.

Jaelyn's heart skipped a beat, thinking he couldn't resist the urge to accompany her into the hotel.

Jaelyn averted her gaze and left the umbrella behind.

"No need. It's close, and I'm not that fragile."