CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND SEVENTY ONE – THE LAST GOODBYE

"Gordon," she said softly, "would you... would you stay tonight? One last time?" He hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Of course, Jas. If that's what you want." They made their way to the bedroom, their movements slow and tinged with sadness. As they lay down together, Jasmine curled into Gordon's embrace, breathing in his familiar scent. Tears slipped silently down her cheeks as she realized this would be the last time she felt his arms around her. Gordon held her close, stroking her hair gently. "I'm so sorry, Jas," he whispered. "I never wanted to hurt you." Jasmine didn't respond. She simply clung to him, memorizing the feel of his body against hers, the sound of his heartbeat. Eventually, exhausted by the emotional toll of the day, she drifted off to sleep in his arms. The next morning, Jasmine woke to find Gordon already dressed and packing his small overnight bag. The reality of their situation came crashing back, and she felt a fresh wave of pain wash over her. "You're