The engagement hall was still buzzing, but Jay couldn't stay surrounded by the crowd.
She slipped quietly from the room, pulling Keifer along.
"Jay… what—" he began, concern etching his features as he saw her trembling.
She didn't answer.
She just let herself collapse into his arms, burying her face against his chest.
Tears spilled freely, unchecked.
"I can't… I can't do this," she sobbed, voice breaking.
"Everything's falling apart and… and I feel so helpless. Ivy… this engagement… it's all happening, and I…"
Her hands clutched at his shirt, desperate, trembling.
"I don't want to lose you, Keifer!"
He wrapped his arms around her tightly, one hand stroking her hair, the other pressed firmly against her back.
"Shhh… it's okay," he whispered, voice low, soothing.
"I'm here. I'm not going anywhere."
Jay shook her head, tears soaking his shirt.
"But I see it… Ivy… she's smiling, she's happy, and I… I feel like I can't do anything! I can't fight!"
Keifer tightened his hold, possessively, almost growling under his breath.
"You don't have to fight anyone, Jay. I've got you. Always."
Her sobs slowed slightly, but the trembling didn't stop.
She buried her face closer, whispering, "I love you… I love you so much. And I can't… I can't watch this happen."
Keifer pressed his lips gently to her head, holding her like he'd never let go.
"You don't have to watch it alone," he said softly.
"Not now, not ever. You're mine, Jay. Only mine. I'll fix this. I swear."
Jay let herself cry completely, finally feeling some relief in his arms.
The fear, the heartbreak, the helplessness—it all poured out onto him.
Keifer held her tight, possessive and protective, letting her feel safe.
His own chest tightened with the knowledge of what he couldn't control yet—but he would protect her, no matter what.
"I can't lose you," Jay whispered again.
"You're all I have."
"You won't," Keifer murmured, voice low and fierce.
"Not while I'm breathing, Jay. Not while I'm here. You're mine. Always."
And in that private, quiet moment, Jay let herself break completely.
And Keifer… finally let himself feel the depth of what he wanted—and needed.