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The Consequences

(Cash's POV)

Cash sat in the waiting area, his leg bouncing nervously. He couldn't help but think about what Alle had said—how she didn't want to hurt him.

But that's exactly what she had done.

And maybe it wasn't her fault. Maybe it wasn't anyone's fault. But it still stung.

The door to the hallway opened, and he looked up to see Alle standing there. She didn't look angry or upset, but there was something in her eyes that made him feel like he wasn't supposed to be here anymore.

"Hey," she said softly, her voice strained.

"Hey," Cash replied, standing up.

She looked at him for a long moment before speaking. "I didn't want it to end like this. I didn't want to hurt you."

"I know," Cash said, but it didn't make the ache go away. "It's just... I don't know how to handle this, Alle. I can't just act like everything's okay when it's not."

Her face twisted with guilt. "I didn't mean to make you feel that way."

"Then don't do it," Cash snapped before he could stop himself. "Don't make me feel like this if you're not going to give me a chance."

He saw the way her face dropped, but it didn't make him feel better. He turned away, not wanting to see the hurt in her eyes anymore.

"I'm sorry," she said quietly.

Cash didn't turn around. He didn't want to see the apology. He just wanted to be alone.