~Joan~

I felt someone walk into the room, and I turned. His dark eyes met mine as he closed the door quietly behind him, his movements careful, almost hesitant.

He gave me a small smile, and my heart flipped again. I pressed my lips together, trying to steady the tremble I felt creeping in.

He came closer, settling into the seat beside my bed before taking my hand in his. His touch was warm, grounding. He sighed, running his fingers gently through my hair, the motion ...