I was still standing in front of the door, trying to regulate my breathing, which felt heavier than it should. "Bell?" I opened my eyes and turned around. Clara was standing a few steps away from me.I forced a smile. "I'm fine." Clara didn't move. Her gaze remained fixed on me, and I knew she wouldn't accept my answer just like that. "Belva," she said softly. "Don't lie." I sighed a little, letting my smile fade slightly. I could have said everything was fine, that the earlier encounter didn’t affect me. But Clara knew me better than that. She stepped closer, her small hand hesitating for a moment before finally touching my arm lightly. "Bell," she repeated, her voice even softer. I swallowed hard, feeling something in my chest starting to loosen. I didn’t want to look vulnerable, but with her, I didn’t have to pretend to be strong. Without warning, Clara pulled me into a hug. Warm, tight, as if she was trying to channel a strength that words couldn't express. I let my body
Last Updated : 2025-03-31 Read more