The words were spoken without raised tone, without an outburst of emotion. And precisely because of that, they felt heavier more honest. Like a confession that slipped out before it could be restrained.
Valerie slowly turned back.
Demian was standing very close now. His eyes were fixed on her, dark and chaotic, as though even he did not know whether what he had just said was a plea or a confession of sin.
"I don't know how to explain everything," Demian continued, his voice rough. "I don't know how to resolve this tonight. But I know one thing."
He tightened his hold on Valerie's fingers slightly, as if afraid that if he let go now, she would truly leave.
"I want you. Not because of a bond. Not because of duty. But because you are the only thing that feels real to me right now."
Valerie swallowed.
"What do you want from me, Demian?" she asked quietly. "If you can't choose?"
Demian fell silent. The question was too precise to answer quickly.
