I can't.

"Hey, Chase?"

He gave a hum of acknowledgment. I hesitated. I shouldn't say anything at all. I really... I just, can't. Not here, probably not ever.

I can't.

I wanted to think we were destined in some way — to end up happy, to grow old, just to be together. I tried to think that, but sitting next to him in the elevator, my previous security was slipping increasingly with each passing moment.

I glanced over and Chase was looking right at me.

No, no, no.

I can't.