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.

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

his tears forcefully as he struggled to rise, using his

ascend the staircase,

grin to Landon's face.

reached the room where Angelina

Its simplicity belied the fact that it had

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

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

a date for,” Landon said, his voice tinged with emotion as he lifted out a chili-red evening gown. “I'll never