Chapter 89

Nadine

I wake up with a jolt, my heart pounding as I feel a hand tightly gripping mine. I try to move, but something, no, someone, holds me still. Slowly, I sit up, and there he is, Ethan, his head resting on the edge of the hospital bed, fast asleep.

My chest tightens at the sight. He didn’t go home last night. He stayed here with me.

I close my eyes, hoping to steady the storm inside me. How can I be so fortunate to have someone with such a pure heart by my side, yet feel nothing for him? I search my heart for any trace of love, but everything is blank.

I can't even begin to count how much he has shown me love, whether it's been easy or difficult, all in such a short time.

I know he cares, he’s shown it in countless ways, ways that should matter. But no matter how hard I try, my heart refuses to respond.

My hand moves toward his hair, hesitating for a moment before I let my fingers brush against the silky strands.