CHAPTER SIXTY: Gentle Obsession

The air inside the rickety cottage is heavy with mustiness and tension as I push open the creaking door. My footsteps echo against the worn wooden floorboards, but Anastasia doesn't flinch at the sound. She sits on the makeshift bed, her gaze fixed on some distant point that only she can see, her eyes empty and lost.

I’ve entered with a specific intention, but as I take in the sight of Anastasia, my desire to consummate our bond evaporates. Instead, a deep ache settles in my chest, urging me to comfort her, to try to erase or at least lessen the sadness etched on her face.

I kneel down beside her, my hands reaching out to gently wipe away the tears that are streaking down her cheeks. Anastasia doesn't resist my touch, but her silence speaks volumes. She’s hurting, and my heart is breaking to see her in such pain. Yet, amidst my own pain, I can’t shake the determination that burns within me.

I’m willing to do the extra mile for her to feel better except for one thing.

"What can I