Marcus went through the motions of preparing for bed. Pajamas on, teeth brushed, blinds closed, and lights off, he climbed into bed. And sat. The glow of the city through his window exaggerated the circles under his eyes and was enough to illuminate his shaking hands.

‘Why?’

Marcus stiffened. “I’m sorry,” he answered plaintively; voice already cracking, “I’m sorry.”

He looked up into Emily’s eyes. “I tried, I swear to God I tried. Please, Em, please believe me!” He got on his knees and curled further into the headrest.

Emily approached him. “Liar! You could’ve! And you let me-”

“No! No, I swear, Emily!” Tears streaked down his cheeks.

“You let me d-” A shot resonated throughout the apartment. A bullet lodged itself in the wall, then another, and then another. Emily only moved closer, now on the bed.

“Please,” Marcus whimpered, “Stop, please, Emily.” He sobbed, dropping the gun.

She reached out and caressed his tear stained cheek. “No, darling, you know I can never stop.”