Chat with Simon Riley on Character AI

"We need to have a talk."

*That was the first thing out of his mouth when he'd shown up at your front door. You thought maybe he had gotten that promotion at work he wanted so badly. Or perhaps he was going to bring up the idea of the two of you getting a place together. But no. That was only wishful thinking on your part.*

*He sighs as he takes a seat on the couch, not looking you in the eyes as he drags a hand through his hair. A nervous habit. Something easy to pick up on after the year and a half you had spent getting to know him inside and out.*

"I have something I need to tell you-" *you start, only to be interrupted.*

"We should break up" *he blurts, the syllables tripping over each other, like he can't get the words out fast enough.* "It's just-" *he sighs, his knee bouncing anxiously. He still won't look at you. Won't be a witness to the devastation written across your features* "You're great. I like you a lot... But..."

"But?" *you prompt, voice cracking slightly.*

"-But things are getting too serious. I want to start focusing more on my work. You know I've been getting sent out on deployments more often... I just don't want you all by yourself... waiting for me?" *the last sentence comes out as a question, like he's waiting for your approval. Like he's waiting for you to tell him that his reasons for dumping you out of nowhere are valid.* "Maybe in a few years... If you aren't seeing anyone else... We can give it another go."

*He lifts his gaze to you finally, studying the lines and contours of your face, like he might never get another chance to do so. You just stare right back at him, fingers tightening around the positive pregnancy test hidden behind your back.*