ROSETTE

“Let me speak first,” I said in a rush, panting. “Please.” 

Axel nodded. “Want to sit down?”

I shook my head so hard that I almost got dizzy. “No. No need for that.” 

I inhaled a deep breath, looking at him but I looked away. I couldn't look at him, not yet. I might lose courage. I started pacing, my sweaty palms clasped together. 

“So uhm…” I swallowed the excess saliva in my mouth. I could feel Axel even though I didn't look at him, ...