PLAYING WITH FIRE

Chapter 88: Talking About The Wedding

Maya nodded immediately, her protective instincts kicking in. "Of course, sweetheart. I'll be right back."

She gave Carina's hand a reassuring squeeze before standing up and heading out of the room to get a glass of water.
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As Maya left the room, she tried to push down the worry that was gnawing at her. Seeing Carina so unwell was tough, but she was determined to take care of her and make sure she got better.

She returned a few minutes later with a glass of water, carrying it carefully. "I'm back, love. I have some water for you."

Carina gave a weak smile, slowly sitting up in the bed. "Thank you, bella."

She took the glass from Maya, her hand trembling slightly as she brought it to her lips and took a sip. The cool water soothed her throat, but the pain in her chest remained.

Carina let out a weary sigh, setting the water down on the bedside table. "I'm so tired. And everything hurts."

Maya looked at Carina and said "I know do you want to start wedding planning."

Carina's expression brightened slightly at the mention of wedding planning. Despite feeling unwell, the thought of planning their wedding brought a glimmer of joy to her eyes.

She nodded slowly, a soft smile on her face. "Yes, I'd like that. Even though I'm feeling terrible, thinking about our special day makes me happy."

Maya returned the smile, her heart swelling with love and affection for Carina. "Good. We'll plan everything out when you're feeling better. For now, just focus on resting and recovering."

She moved closer, gently brushing a strand of hair away from Carina's face. "Is there anything else I can do to make you more comfortable?"

Carina shook her head, her eyes starting to droop with exhaustion. "No...just stay with me for now. Your presence alone helps."

She reached out, grabbing Maya's hand and squeezing it gently, as if seeking some extra comfort.

Maya nodded, her thumb rubbing soothingly over the back of Carina's hand. "Of course, love. I'm not going anywhere. I'll stay right here until you fall asleep."

She scooted closer to Carina, making sure she was comfortable and secure. "Just close your eyes and rest, okay? I'm right here."

Maya looked at Carina with a tenderness, her eyes filled with love. She couldn't help but lean in and press a gentle kiss to Carina's lips.

She pulled back after a moment, her hand caressing Carina's cheek affectionately. "I love you, Carina. So much."

Carina's smile widened a bit at the gesture, her eyes flutter lightly. "I love you too, Maya. More than I can even express."

She let out a weary sigh, the effort of speaking and sitting up draining her. "Can you help me lie down? My chest is starting to ache again."

Maya quickly responded, gently guiding Carina back to a laying position. She fluffed the pillows beneath her head to ensure she was as comfortable as possible.

Once Carina was settled, Maya sat beside her on the bed, continuing to stroke her hair softly. "Is that better, my love? Do you need anything else?"

Carina nodded, her eyes half-closing already. "Yes, that's much better. I just need you."

She reached out, grabbing Maya's hand and holding it close to her chest. "Stay with me until I fall asleep, okay?"

Maya squeezed her hand gently, her own heart filled with both love and worry. "Of course, sweetheart. I'll be right here. Just close your eyes and rest. I'll watch over you."