Chapter 124. Stay?

Ricard hesitated for a moment. He could feel a strange emotion stirring inside him, but his rational mind reminded him to keep his distance. “Emma, it’s late. You need to rest so your injuries can heal quickly.”

She sighed softly, then smiled gently. “I understand. Be careful on your way back.”

“Alright. Goodnight,” he replied, turning to leave.

“Ricard,” she called out suddenly.

He stopped and turned back to her. “What is it?”

“I... I’m really glad you were with me tonight,” she said sincerely. “It meant a lot to me.”

He looked at her for a moment, his gaze softening. “Take care of yourself. Sleep well.”

Ricard stepped out of the room and gently closed the door behind him. As he walked down the stairs, his emotions became more complicated. *Why do I feel like this?* he wondered, but he couldn’t find an answer.

Inside the room, Emma lay on the bed, her eyes gazing toward the window where the moonlight streamed in. A faint smile appeare