“Talk to me Ardala, don’t hide.” He settled his head on top of hers and tucked her under his chin. “I want you feel you in my head, I need it so I know what you want even though you can’t admit to wanting things yet.”

“I-“she buried her face in his chest, burrowing further into his arms. “Please, I do not want to love you but every time you are kind to me, I love you a little bit more.”

He staggered; her confession staggered him. He didn’t let ...