Chapter 32

**Beatrice pov**

As I turned my face, the room seemed to hold its breath, as if time itself had momentarily paused to witness the significance of that choice. The air crackled with a mix of anticipation and restraint, and I could sense the depth of Falon's disappointment. But in that moment, something shifted between us—a deeper understanding, a newfound respect.

Falon's eyes, though tinged with longing, held a mixture of admiration and acceptance. It was as if he understood the need for my reaction and what I was going through, the need for self-discovery and healing. Instead of pushing further, he gracefully stepped back, his gaze filled with a quiet understanding that spoke volumes.

Silence settled between us, but it was a comfortable silence, one that carried an unspoken agreement.

At that moment, I realized the beauty of our friendship. It was a bond that had weathered storms, supported one another through the darkest of times, and celebrated moments of triumph. Falon had bec