Chapter 152. Love Me Like You Do

Xerina’s POV

The garden seemed endless, a maze of flowers, vines, and hidden paths that stretched out in every direction. After Rasmus kissed me, the air felt lighter, like something had shifted between us. I couldn’t put it into words, but there was a change. He led me deeper into the garden, his hand never leaving mine, our fingers entwined like we’d always been this way.

The intensity of his confession still lingered between us, but now there was something softer too. The silence was no longer heavy with unspoken things; it felt peaceful. Like the calm after a storm.

We found a small clearing, shaded by tall trees and surrounded by flowers in full bloom. The colors were vibrant—deep reds, purples, and pinks—and a soft breeze rustled through the petals, sending their sweet fragrance into the air.

“This was your favorite spot,” Rasmus said, his voice breaking the silence. His thumb brushed across the back of my hand absentmindedly, sending a spark thr