*Saoirse*

I could see the vulnerability on Rhys’ face as he held the staff in front of me.

“Choose,” he repeated as I stayed silent.

My rage faded as I looked at how upset he was. I felt myself taking a step closer to him. Instead of reaching for the staff, I reached out to touch his face.

“I love you,” I said, my voice cracking slightly, “more than anything.”

Rhys sighed and leaned his face into my hand, but I wasn’t done ...