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It had been a long while since Ethan had fallen asleep in my arms, on my bed.

I thought it was best for him to rest and regain his energy, to forget some of his worries. I didn't like seeing him like this; it tore me apart, and my heart felt small.

I knew he was suffering, and I also knew I couldn't help him.

I gently stroked his cheek, and he just moved his head slightly, a reflex to my touch. His expression looked calmer, and that eased my internal pain.

I got up and went to the terrace of my house. I needed some fresh air, to clear my mind.

My father had told me he wanted us to have dinner tonight, but for what? We only dined together in restaurants when he had some news to deliver.

I was dying to tell him that I was with Ethan and that I didn't care about his contract and his foolishness. Could I do that? Would I dare to say that I loved him and would do anything for him?

It was still a mystery to me why my father's appreciation for Ethan had suddenly changed. He had chosen him to