Tegan wanted to deny it, but the redness at the corners of her eyes betrayed her. The words of denial wouldn’t come out, either. She tried to pull her hand back, but Lorian gently held it. His touch was tender as he placed her hand on his face.

Words became redundant, leaving only their deep and unspoken connection. Lorian’s hand tightened around hers. Then, he guided it down to his chest, where the rhythmic thumping of his heart could be felt.

Lorian's dark eyes were full of sincerity as he