Time seemed to stand still.

Paityn quietly gazed at Jamie, watching as the raindrops fell one by one onto the black umbrella he held. Each droplet made a faint, tearing sound against the fabric. It sounded soft yet haunting.

The rainwater appeared to drift toward her face, pooling at the corners of her eyes. Why else would her skin feel so cold?

Jamie reached out and gently wiped away Paityn's tears. His voice was tender and laced with a compassion that sent shivers through her. “You're ab