Decline for real

Politely, Ethan declines the offer, explaining he isn't much of a drinker.

“Oh my,” Layla looks at the bottle in her hand. “I’m sorry. I was just…” She lowers the bottle, half hiding it behind her. “Silly me. I just assumed a young man like yourself would imbibe.”

“Sorry,” Ethan shrugs, “Never really cared much for it.”

“Ah, well then,” Layla sighs, giving Ethan a long look. “I’ll be on my way. Don’t be a stranger now, neighbor!”

Bidding her goodbye, Ethan watches her leave, conflicted feelings eating at him.

He made his choice, and he’d live with it, only much later realizing he may have made the wrong choice.