“I do,” Bruce said. The words came out, before he could stop it. But even to him they didn’t sound right.

Maya watched him for a moment, then shook her head bitterly.

“No,” she said. “You don’t. At least not the way you love Meret.”

Bruce's heart thudded against his chest loudly. So loud it made Maya smile again. Although bitterly.

“I know you love her.”

“Maya, it’s not how it seems, okay? Just hold on—let me explain.” Bruce tried to reason.

“Oh, come on, Bruce,” ...