Chapter Text
“I can’t do this anymore. We’re done.”
Jack watched his boyfriend (ex-boyfriend?) in silence, hoping for some sign of anger. He wished they were fighting. Maybe then, they could apologize and talk it out and have make-up sex and be done with it.
Instead, Mark just looked tired. He scrubbed a hand over his face and looked at Jack like he was pleading with him to understand, and he just looked… So. Fucking. Tired.
Jack could relate.
“I know,” he said, but he had to bite his lip and look away to prevent himself from crying.
“I love you, Sean.”
The use of his real name made Jack jolt, and his face crumpled for a moment. He willed himself to hold on for just a bit longer. To keep his dignity just until Mark left. “I love you, too.”
The other man breathed in deeply, gathering himself up, and let it out on a long sigh. “But I have to leave.”
“I know,” Jack repeated. He bit his tongue. He didn’t beg Mark to stay like he so desperately wanted to. He didn’t remind him of how much better they were together than apart. He didn’t ask why. They had been slipping for far too long and he knew it.
“I’ll… I’ll go stay with Wade for tonight. I’ll pick my things up while you’re at work tomorrow.”
“Okay.” It would be easier that way, if they didn’t have to see each other.
“Okay. Goodbye.”
“Goodbye.” The word had never felt so final.