Chapter 20

Celine sighed softly, feeling the warmth and at the same time the awkwardness that arose in her heart. "Devano, I... I don't know what to say."

"Say yes," Devano said hopefully, his gaze earnest. "I know you've been through a lot, and I know the past still hurts you. But I want to give you a chance to forget everything. With me, you don't have to think about him anymore."

Celine looked down, her fingers touched the ring inside the box, but there was no feeling that prompted her to accept it. "Devano, you're a good man, and you're always by my side when I need you. I really appreciate that, but..."

Devano looked at her worriedly. "But what, Celine? What... is it because you still have feelings for Nicolas?"

The name made Celine pause for a moment. There was a flash of emotion in her eyes, but she quickly controlled herself and shook her head slowly. "No, Devano. This is not about Nicolas."

"Then what, Celine? Am I not enough for you?" Devano asked, his v