Chapter 76

"Take my hand, Maya."

She looked from him to his outstretched palm, debating whether to take it or not. When she caught his eyes again, something flashed in them. Something akin to understanding.

So she stretched her hand, placing it atop his. The corner of his lips twitched slightly, her eyes remained fixed on his. She rose to her feet with his help, staggering a little from the sudden motion. His hands came around her arm to steady her and she pressed her hands against his chest in response.

They stayed like that, his hand tightening around her flesh. The chill in her bones was beginning to melt away the longer he held her. It felt like he was fire and she was ice. Goosebumps were already starting to form on her exposed back, and she suddenly regretted wearing a gown like this. 

"Let's get in the car." He said softly but she remained fixed in her spot. She wished they could stay like this, in the darkness of the night with nothing but the chirping cric