Chapter 236

After nearly an hour of restless silence, Lily kicked the blanket off and sat up again. “David,” she said, her voice softer from exhaustion, “you’re going to ruin your knees.” “That’s fine.” “And you’ll get sick on the floor.” “That’s fine too.” Lily stared at him. “Why are you like this?” David lifted his head a little, and his voice came barely above a whisper. “Because I can’t lose you again. I love you. I love you more than enough I could ever thought I can. Even if you don’t want me… even if you hate me… let me stay close. Please.” His “please” wasn’t dramatic. It wasn’t manipulative. It was quiet. Honest. A man stripped of every inch of pride he once had. Lily’s heart twisted painfully, but she didn’t show it. She took a slow breath. “Fine. Do what you want. But don’t talk. Don’t come close. And don’t expect anything.” David nodded once. “I won’t.” Lily lay back down again, turning her back to him. She closed her eyes. But sleep still didn’t come. Her heartbeat was too loud. His