The tone allowed no argument, not because it was cruel, but because it carried certainty.
Valerie let out a quiet breath. She didn't smile, but she didn't protest either. "I understand."
Demian studied her a few seconds longer than he realized. There was something in the way Valerie accepted his decision calm, obedient, yet distant that made his chest tighten uncomfortably.
He stepped closer. "This isn't a permanent restriction," he added, as if compelled to explain. "When you're better, I'll take you myself."
Valerie looked at him, faintly surprised.
"Really?"
Demian did not answer with words. He only gave a brief nod.
And for the first time that night, the weight in Valerie's chest eased not because of a grand promise, but because for once, Demian had not only decided…he had also considered her.
The days passed in a pattern that was almost the same calm on the surface, yet layered with things left unsaid.
