Later

“What did you say?”

Harper heard it, with all its might. Every word, every inflection, every shaking of Damon’s voice. She heard it. VERILY.

“I said I love you, my queen. You’re the only mate that matters. You and Hector are my life.” – Damon said, finally letting loose of the words he kept within himself for too long.

It’s like a gushing waterfall. Once it’s out, it keeps pouring. He can’t stop himself now.

Harper saw his Adam’s apple move when he swallowed and looked down at her lips. Was he waiting for her to say something? An equivalent of what he just said? Is that why there’s silence between them now?

“I… I don’t know what to say.” – Harper said, placing her hands down from his shoulders to her either side.

“Do you love me?”

The question hung in mid-air. Harper felt like she was stoned in her exact position. Like she was nailed so she couldn’t move.

“What do you wish to hear, Damon?”

“The truth. I can feel it… but I want to hear it from your own lips.”

He can feel what?

Does