Intensely

I bowed my head, averting my gaze to my trembling hand.

"But I want you to know that I'll be fine as long as you're happy with him. I can't ruin your relationship. Arik is still my best friend, he will always be. But, Celeste..."

I immediately lifted my gaze to him when he abruptly took my hand. His bright, slanted eyes revealed a pleading and pained expression. They were filled with agony. He licked his lower lip and clicked his tongue, seemingly restraining himself.

"If the pain prevails over joy, please allow yourself to be happy. It's okay to take a break. Don't immediately think you're being selfish. We're just human beings after all," he said, gently squeezing my hand. I could feel his excessive care in that gesture.

I was about to speak when Arik violently pulled Rusty's hand off me and quickly pulled me up.