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.

head in his arms, his body wracked with silent cries. “Landon, Jordan and I will help you gather Angelina's belongings. You don't have to force yourself to do it," Jasper said, holding Landon’s trembling shoulders, his own

fine," Landon insisted, wiping away his tears forcefully as he struggled to rise, using his

his friend's stubborn yet fragile form ascend the staircase, Jasper's heart constricted with

flamboyant grin to Landon's face. She wasn't just

room where

only a bed, a wardrobe, and a table. Its simplicity belied the fact that it had once been occupied by a young

space, remained by the door as Landon gently brushed his fingertips across the desk's surface, sensing the lingering scent of Angelina

wardrobe, Landon beheld each luxurious evening gown, carefully preserved in plastic as if untouched by time. Tears welled

every business party I needed a date for,” Landon said, his voice tinged with emotion as he