He suddenly let go, and I was free again. I did not open my eyes and just laid there on the couch like a dead fish.

After a long while, he took me in his arms and held me close. Leaning against his chest, I could clearly feel the beating of his heart. Thump, thump, thump. It was strong.

“How much longer do you want to pretend?” His deep, magnetic voice reached my ears.

He raised his hand and pinched my cheek, but I still did not ...