Broken Boulder this sadness in our hearts is kinda killing me

Tears came, then. He kept digging, trying to ignore them, but they were there nonetheless. After a few beats he gave up-- it was good enough anyway. It was just a damn hole for meat. Ali gave a frustrated sigh and turned away.
I-- I can't. The boy repeated dully, and then his words became sharp again. I can't do this. I can't lose anyone that way again, Korei, I can't-- I can't be with you.
The last part was breathless, raw; he hadn't wanted to say it. But he did. It was done now. Broken and quiet, he tacked on: Not right now.
The boy took a few steps back, then, suddenly realizing the damage he may have done. There were more tears now, but he didn't notice until the wetness became cold in the fur halfway down his face. He tried to speak more, but all that came was a choked half-sob. Alarian could only stand and stare, eyes wide and hollow.