Can’t Win Me Back

As Landon entered the living hall, his eyes reddened from the emotions swelling within him. Everything appeared unchanged, as if nothing had occurred.

A gentle voice, once a source of comfort, broke the silence. "Mr. Landon, you're back.”

“I'm back," he choked out. His smile, though warm, faded as he realized there would be no reply to follow.

With a heavy thud, Landon's knees buckled beneath him. He crumpled onto the floor, his once sturdy frame folding inward. Silent sobs wracked his body as he curled into a ball.

"Landon!"

"Mr. Landon!"

Jasper and Jordan rushed to his side; concern etched on their faces. But the only response was the quiet sound of wet tears hitting the ground.

“Landon, Jordan and I will help you gather Angelina's belongings. You don't have to force

tears forcefully as he struggled to rise, using his arms for support as he made his

yet fragile form ascend the staircase, Jasper's heart

mentioning Angelina would always bring a flamboyant grin to Landon's face.

room

and a table. Its simplicity belied the fact that it

hesitant to disturb the sanctity of the space, remained by the door as Landon gently brushed his fingertips across the

wardrobe, Landon beheld each luxurious evening gown, carefully preserved in plastic as

his voice tinged with emotion as he lifted out a chili-red evening gown.