Chapter 78: Full of False Beliefs

RYKER

With a slight curl of her lips, Claire gave off an air of knowing that was mysterious and interesting. I was caught off guard when she gently touched both of my faces. The kindness of her actions made me feel good. She stroked the curves of her face with great accuracy, using a light touch to apply a slight force. I was filled with awe as I felt her warm skin on mine.

"You've been in love with me that long?" Claire asked. "Gosh, that was five years ago, and I didn't even notice it."

"Indeed," I said in a low voice that was hard to hear over the wind's whispers. "Perhaps I must exercise self-control; you never notice it, but I hope you can feel it."

Claire's smile suddenly faded, and tears started to fall down her face. She slowly pulled her hand away from the soft touch on my cheek. She touched the thing lightly, running her palm along its surface. I carefully took Claire's tiny hand in mine.

"If my feelings for you are not sincere, I won't wait five years to restrain myself. An