"Sorry, I'm not available."

Sanford refused without hesitation and started to walk away.

Jaelyn quickly caught up and grabbed his sleeve. "Sanford, I know you don't like me. I shouldn't have lied to you over and over again. After I leave this time, I won't come back or disturb your life ever again. But before I go, I just want to do something for you. Can you trust me one last time?"

Tears glistened in her eyes as she looked at him with sincerity, her voice breaking slightly.

Sanford paused and observed her face.