Chapter 42. Holding Back

River’s thumb traced my wrist, grounding me in the one reality that still felt safe.

He stayed beside me even if I didn’t answer immediately, ensuring that he wouldn’t leave, and that he would protect me until the end.

“Alright…” I answered as I nodded, though the fog in my mind still rattled. “Thank you, River.”

Those words were more sincere than I had expected. I’m really glad that River was on my side now, especially now that I’m feeling this way.

And somewhere deep down, I knew the struggle was only the beginning.

I know that there will be more challenges that will be thrown against us. After all, a relationship that started with a mistake doesn’t seem to have a good ending.

Wait… A relationship?

Am I in a relationship with River now?

Having those questions in my mind, I suddenly felt my cheeks burning red. Stop it, Serenity. Why do I have these thoughts right now? I even feel dizzy, yet I have the energy to flirt?

Stop it.