Damon didn't move for a few moments, waiting for his heart to hear her answer. But for some reason, Charlotte said nothing.
She just stood there, her hand covering her lips, and suddenly tears began to fall down her cheeks.
The sight made Damon's chest tighten. Panic rushed through him, and a horrible thought struck him. 'Did I push her too hard? Did I make her feel trapped?'
"Charlotte," his voice came out rough, almost breaking, "if this feels too heavy for you … it's alright. You can say no. I can wait as long as you need."
"No."
Damon's eyes widened, unable to believe that word had truly come from her lips. "You … you're rejecting me?"
Charlotte suddenly let out a soft laugh and cried at the same time. "No, Damon. I don't want to reject you."
This time, his eyes grew even wider. His knees felt weak, and his breath caught in his throat. "Does that mean—"