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Henry felt a sense of panic as he considered her with someone else. Another man arm and arm with her delicate body. She was a husk of her former self still and if someone treated her poorly . . . he couldn't bear to see that. It was a conflict that raged behind his cool eyes. He was sure that love was an illusion it would not last for someone like him. He knew that their friendship would as he had proven in many of his past dalliances. It would stay sure for as long as they were near each other. This he could hold in his hand and trust that it would stay.

He tried to phrase in a way that would not hurt her. "No, no, that's not what I mean. I mis-spoke my intentions. I very rarely have this closeness to others." His words tumbled after each other as he tried again. "I do like you too Ellie. But, I'm not really in the headspace right now to pursue a relationship with anyone. The idea of being someone's boyfriend or even more being a husband isn't something that at this point in my life is something I'm ready for. I will be happy to be by your side always, but not as your partner. At least, not yet for me, marriage is too much for me to consider right now."Find authorized novels in Webnovel，faster updates, better experience，Please click www.novelhall.comfor visiting.

Henry looked at the red and puffiness that had appeared around Ellie's downcast eyes and wondered what he should do if she was going to cry. It was not something he was good at dealing with or really ever had much want to. Instead she surprised him she wiped her eyes quickly and looked alright. She seemed to be more capable than he had previously thought. 

"It was a bit too good to be the same for both of us. I'm not offended that you don't feel the same. But I knew I would regret it if I didn't at least shoot my shot. I wanted to at least consider this possibility. I'm glad that I did." She took his hand warmly as she turned him. "Do you think you could help me find some more cookies? I'd love to get the recipe from your chef, but I have no idea where the kitchen is in this big house."

Henry looked like he had been very delighted with her response. Ellie noted this with mixed feelings as she was unsure whether this would bode well or ill for her in the future. There was a barely discernable spring to his step as he continued to steer her in the direction she had indicated with her previous speech. On Henry's mind he was jovial. It was a prize to him that he had not lost her. Henry had not really thought how much his companionship with her was important until she had pointed out it could be rescinded. He did not want to think what it would be like without her here.