Maya's POV
Those three simple words floated between us in the darkness, carrying more weight than anything else Sebastian had ever said to me. My entire body went rigid in his embrace, every muscle locking up as if movement itself might shatter this precious, terrifying moment.
Sebastian felt my sudden stillness immediately, his frame growing tense against mine. His breathing hitched, and I could sense him waiting, hoping for the response that seemed trapped somewhere between my heart and my lips.
The answer lived inside me, burning bright and true. I loved him desperately, completely. How could I possibly feel otherwise? Yet some inexplicable terror held my voice hostage, as though speaking those words would transform this beautiful dream into something far too real, far too vulnerable.
