Jeff's eyes widened, his voice trembling. "I… I think you need some rest. I should leave."
He stood up quickly, but Rico grabbed his hand tightly. "Don't leave me alone… please," Rico pleaded, his voice soft and desperate.
Jeff looked down at him, conflicted. "You're drunk, Rico. You don't know what you're saying right now. You just need to rest."
But Rico pulled him into a tight hug. "I do know what I'm saying… and I meant every word."
Jeff's heart pounded in his chest. A wave of emotion crashed into him—confusion, guilt, desire. He thought of Mr. Sebastian and what he might say if he found out. "Rico…" Jeff whispered, then slowly pushed him away.
He grabbed his jacket and turned toward the door. "Please… take care of yourself. I'm going now."
Rico's eyes shimmered with tears as he whispered, "It's okay… You can go now. Thanks for everything."
