He actually says it, the words she can't manage. Yes, she's trying to break up with him.

Her cheeks burn and she looks down, her throat tight as she manages a small nod.

"I- I love you. So much. But you can't win if I'm here. And- and I know what it means to you. I have to, Cooper. I'm so so sorry."

She can't bring herself to take her hand away, instead clinging to him like a lifeline. "You'll thank me when you're on the Night Council." He had to win, now. Otherwise, all of this would have been for nothing.