Han, grappling with the suddenness of Maxine's words, finally spoke in a subdued voice, "Are you breaking up with me?" Maxine nodded, her heart shattering into a million pieces. "I want you to pursue your dreams without any hindrances. I want you to soar, Jisung." Han, grappling with the weight of the moment, took Maxine's hands in his. "Max, I love you. I can't imagine my life without you. Please don't do this." Tears streaming down her face, Maxine mustered a painful smile, "Sometimes, love means making the hardest decisions. I want you to remember me fondly, not as a regret."