"Do you…" Damian began, his voice a rough whisper, "really mean what you said?"
Evelina's breath caught.
Her mind raced, replaying everything she had poured out moments before. A blush crept into her cheeks, and she found herself unable to look away from him, the question hanging between them.
"Uhmm… w-what are you saying?"
His eyes searched hers as he asked again, "Do you really care and love me?"
She pulled back slightly, shaking her head. "You're delirious. You don't know what you're saying."
His grip on her hand tightened just enough to stop her retreat. "Don't lie to me, Evelina," Damian said, his voice growing stronger despite the weariness etched into his features. "I love you. Do you love me?"
Her lips parted, but no words came out.
His silver eyes gazed into hers, showing a mix of vulnerability and intensity that left her breathless. She found herself unable to look away, unable to ignore the truth reflected in her trembling hands as they held his.
