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I feel terrible, but I have to cancel our date tonight.
— Sheperd • The American President
Behind the line May contain spoilers.
Our reading
An editorial interpretation.
The speaker pairs an apology with the cancellation of a date, acknowledging that the change may disappoint the other person. Feeling terrible expresses regret, while have to presents the decision as necessary. The sentence tries to preserve consideration for the relationship even as it withdraws from the plan.
Context reviewed