Dai_Jera
Ethan's Perspective:
I froze. "Isabelle's alive?" The words hung in the air, unbelievable. She was alive. My Isabelle.
My hands clenched on the luggage. I had to go to her. Now.
"Where are you going?" her voice was barely a whisper.
"To Isabelle," I managed, my voice rough. The words felt like a betrayal, a tearing away of something precious.
"What?" The question hung in the air, unanswered. I couldn't explain. Not yet.
"I'm sorry," I said, the words catching in my throat. She deserved better than this. She deserved the truth, but the truth was a brutal, painful thing. She knew Isabelle was my greatest love. Always had been.
Tears welled in her eyes. I wanted to comfort her, to hold her, but I couldn't. Not now.
"Take care of yourself," I whispered, kissing her one last time, a kiss filled with regret and a lifetime of unspoken words. "Remember... I loved you." The words felt hollow, inadequate. I left, the door clicking shut behind me, leaving a piece of my heart behind.
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Liam's Perspective:
She was trying to escape. Again. I wouldn't let her. Not this time.
"Ophelia, please stop," I said, my voice firm but gentle. "Not until you answer my question."
Her sigh was almost a sob. "You don't know what you're getting into, Liam. I'm difficult. And I don't believe in love anymore."
I knew. I knew she was guarded, wounded. But I also knew I could handle it. I had to.
I took her hand, my gaze locking with hers. "I want to share your joys and sorrows, your laughter and tears. I'll be here for you, Ophelia, always. I'll fight for you, whether you like it or not. You've completely captivated me."
The words poured out, raw and honest. I had to make her believe. I had to convince her that she deserved to be loved, to be cherished. She was my greatest love. Always would be. And I would prove it.