Chapter 14. Sacred Traditions
Maria’s face remained bowed to the ground. She didn’t utter a word. Silence wrapped around her like armor, her lips sealed shut.
James took a step closer, sensing her withdrawal. He raised his hand slightly, about to touch her arm, when she suddenly lifted her head.
The look in her eyes was sharp, completely unexpected.
"I’ve told you before," she said, her voice hard and cold, "we can only be friends. But it seems you’re not okay with that." Her eyes didn’t blink. "I think it’s best we keep our distance. Please, don’t come close to me again."
With that, she turned and walked out on him.
James stood frozen in place, blindsided. Her words echoed in his ears, each one like a dagger. He didn’t move, didn’t speak. He was too stunned to react, still trying to piece together what had just happened.
’What did I do wrong?’ The question spun endlessly in his mind.
Maria’s steps quickened as she walked away, but deep down, she felt a pang of guilt twist in her chest. She knew James didn’t deserve the harshness she threw at him.
Part of her wanted to turn around, apologize, explain—but she couldn’t. Not now. She needed to keep her distance and stay focused.
She couldn’t afford distractions, no matter how kind or genuine they seemed.
Eventually, her wandering led her to the college game center. She walked straight to her usual spot and sat down, hoping that the noise and movement of the place would somehow quiet her mind.