When Raven finally spoke, his words stopped Azzmi in place.

“I love you.”

Azzmi’s heart jumped. The slow music kept playing, but she could not move. She tried to answer, but no sound came out.

Raven smiled gently. He brushed a few strands of hair behind her ear.

“I said I love you, babe,” he repeated. “I’ve felt something special for you for a long time. I thought the things I did would be enough to show it. But I realized I needed to say it out loud. I love you, ...