Zoe POV

The silence stretches between us.

Noah stares at me. His mouth opens. Closes. No words come.

I take a shaky breath.

"Noah." My voice is quiet but firm. "I'm begging you. Please. Just let me go."

He looks up. Confusion in his eyes.

"Complete the rejection ceremony." I step closer. "Accept my rejection. Sever the bond. Let me be free."

"Zoe---"

"I'm asking you." My voice cracks. "I'm begging you. Please. I can't keep living like this. ...