The men had their rifles ready to shoot at any sight of Lennie, none of them had been able to find him yet. George knew where he was, back in the brush where they had first stayed, waiting for George to save him.
George crouched down onto the familiar dirt path, gun hidden, and crawled warily to the area where he could see Lennie's large body turned away from him through the brush.
He slowly brought his gun up, aiming at Lennie's head.
George could kill Lennie without him even knowing about it. He wouldn't have to take care of him anymore, he could spend his money however he liked, he wouldn't get into trouble because of Lennie anymore, he wouldn't have to worry about getting kicked out of the ranch. He could even get a girl.
George stepped on a dry, crackly branch. Lennie turned around at the sound. His gaze met George's, then it shifted down to his gun. His eyes were wide and confused.
"George... what are you doin' George...?"
George didn't answer. Seeing Lennie's wide, innocent eyes reminded him of the reason he hadn't abandoned Lennie. Despite the struggle and burden that came with caring for Lennie, George wouldn't have it any other way. Deep down, he couldn't deny, he liked Lennie. Loved him even, more than a friend should. He hadn't left him for a girl because he didn't really want a girl.
George lowered the gun.
"Lennie, listen to me. Get outta here, run as fast ya can, find another place to work at."
"George... are you coming with me?"
"I can't come with ya Lennie, go quickly now."
Lennie was panicked.
"But- George.. What do you mean... I got you to look after me and you got me to look after you, remember-"
"I lied, okay?! I'm not looking after ya, you're on your own! We ain't living together with no rabbits, just- go!"
George ran out, wiping his eyes, willing himself not to cry. He had to leave Lennie behind. He couldn't kill him but he couldn't run with him, the same thing would just happen again and again.
He heard the voices of the other men coming closer. He lifted his gun and turned the barrel to face him and pulled the trigger.
