(Lina's POV)
Beneath the moonlight, wrapped in warm flames and the overcoat that carried a comforting scent, I felt a coldness in my chest that had nothing to do with my surroundings. Time seemed to stop for me—except it really hadn't, because everyone else was still moving, still talking. But I had gone somewhere far away. Daniel felt so distant that I couldn't even hope to reach him. So my subconscious took me back to a night just like this one: under the moonlight, wrapped in a comfortable overcoat—except back then, Daniel and I had been closer than ever.
I never allowed myself to think of these moments before. I wasn't strong enough to handle what came after.
Ten years ago…
Dinner at Daniel's house was always a comedic affair. Tonight took the cake with a special rendition of David reenacting his father's lectures at the university—followed by said father returning early and chasing him around the house for his mockery. To say the least, he was not amused.
While the chaos rumbled on and the aroma of freshly baked pie—made by yours truly—wafted through the house, I stood up and wiped my hands on my apron, ready to join the gang in the living room. That's when two strong hands wrapped around me from behind.
I let out a delighted squeal, only to be instantly shushed by Daniel, who clamped a hand over my mouth. I took the opportunity to pepper his hand with kisses, and he groaned before turning me around.
"You're going to be the death of me, sweetheart." His forehead pressed against mine, and I felt the intensity of his gaze warming me to my core.
I hid my blush behind a cheeky grin."I sure hope not." My hand slid over his gorgeous face. "That would be such a waste."
He made a noise at the back of his throat and yanked my lips toward his own—only to be blocked by my hands on his chest.He pouted.
"Not now," I said, laughing at his expression."Why not?"I tugged gently at his cheek. "Whining doesn't suit you.""Then kiss meee, please."
Cue the puppy-dog face. I couldn't say no to that, so I brushed my lips quickly against his, just in case any of his family walked in. From the frown deepening on his forehead, that clearly wasn't enough. He relented.
"Oh, what the hell."
He crashed his lips onto mine and kissed me so deeply my knees nearly buckled. If it weren't for his hands anchoring me to him, I'd have hit the floor. My eyes fluttered shut, and he deepened the kiss, drawing a quiet moan from me.
He pulled back—regretfully fast—but watched me with that rapt intensity that always made my heart stutter.
Overcome, I turned away with the excuse that I had to take the pie out. But when I looked back, he was still standing in the same spot.
His eyes were sad. "We gotta talk, Lee."
I shook my head. "There's nothing to talk about. You're going off to a great college, and I'm proud of you. I just need to… deal."
Against my will, a stubborn tear slipped down my cheek. I wiped it quickly, hoping he wouldn't notice. But Daniel always noticed everything about me.
He stroked my face and pulled me into his arms, murmuring,"I love you, Lee."
It was the first time either of us had said it. I pulled back in shock. But I recovered quickly—the grin that spread across my face ached in my jaw, and still I couldn't stop smiling.
I kissed him again. "I love you too, Dan."He stared at me. "Really?"I nodded, letting the tears fall freely now.
His expression turned somber, and he reached into his pocket."It's a little early to give you this, but I don't want to wait anymore. I know what I want, and that's you—for the rest of my life."
His words made my heart pound with an unnatural rhythm, and I could only watch as he pulled out a silver ring.
"It's not an engagement ring. That'll come when I'm worthy of marrying you and can offer the family crest ring. But this... this is just as important to me. It's a promise."
He looked nervous, practically stammering despite his usual confidence. My heart swelled, and I whispered,"Yes."
He slid the ring onto my finger and grinned—until he noticed my sudden frown."What's wrong?""It's stupid but… I wanted to get you one too."
His smile returned. "That's all?"He chuckled and tugged at my cheek. "You can get me one next time we see each other. Deal?""Deal."
That day had been the last time I ever saw him.And I realized—I didn't keep my end of the deal.Not that it mattered now.Someone had already beaten me to it.