An Afternoon Stroll
With our wedding day approaching, I thought a gentle walk in the local woods might help ease the tension I sensed in Liam.

My fiancé, Marcus, agreed instantly. Liam lifted his head from staring at the floor and gave a small shrug. We set out together, the late afternoon sun stretching our shadows as we walked. I hoped this simple outing might close the widening distance between us.
“How about a quick trip down to the woods?” I proposed, hoping to coax a genuine smile from him.
Silent Moments by the Water
In the woods, we ambled by the stream, watching the graceful swans navigate the water.
I made several attempts to start a conversation, but his gaze remained fixed on the waterfowl. I desperately wanted to know his thoughts, but any question seemed too intrusive. Marcus and I exchanged worried looks, unsure of how to get through to him.

Usually, Liam would enthusiastically mimic the swans with a playful honk, but this time, he watched them in complete silence.
Turning Down a Favorite Treat
Knowing that ice cream was Liam’s lifelong weakness, I believed I could lift his spirits with it.

His refusal was completely out of character. As I tried to think of my next move, Marcus jumped in, suggesting, “Why don’t we hit up the gaming hall after this?” I nodded, masking my growing concern. Something significant was troubling Liam, and I was resolved to find out what.
“Do you want your usual flavor, pal?” I asked, holding out a cone of his favorite. But he merely shook his head, barely sparing me a glance.
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