With a sudden gasp, Camilla's eyes flew open. She drew in deep breaths, as though she had been holding them for an eternity. Her chest rose and fell rapidly while she struggled to steady herself.
Max instinctively stepped back, stunned by the miracle unfolding before his eyes.
For a moment, he simply stared at her, unable to believe that she was finally awake.
As Camilla caught her breath, her eyes met his.
Neither of them wasted another second.
She threw herself into his arms, wrapping him in a tight embrace as if she were afraid he would disappear the moment she let go. Max hesitated for only an instant before returning the hug just as tightly.
Camilla closed her eyes.
Yes... she was afraid of confirming that she also love Max. It was not Francis anymore. It was him, always him.
The realization filled her with both relief and fear, and she tightened her grip around him, unwilling to let go.
The room fell silent, with no words needed between them.
Then, suddenly—
