132: Clear Boundaries

Emma's patience was wearing thin, the weight of Alex's constant presence like a shadow she couldn't shake. Each encounter left her more drained than the last. "What now, Alex? Haven't we danced this dance long enough?" she sighed, barely concealing her frustration. Alex, taken aback by Emma's directness, stumbled over his words, "I... I just thought we should clear the air about... about the past few days." Emma's gaze hardened, her voice icy as she cut him off, "Clear the air? Alex, there's nothing left to clear. We're done. Over. I've moved on, and it's high time you did the same." Alex's face fell, the sting of her words sharper than he anticipated. He'd hoped for reconciliation, but Emma's walls were higher and stronger than ever. "Is this really what you want? To cut me off completely?" Alex's voice cracked, a mixture of disbelief and despair. "Yes, Alex, it is. And while we're setting things straight, let me make one thing perfectly clear—I want you to stay away fr