Chapter 55: Win Over

Chapter 55: Win Over            Valerian sat beside Noelle's bed, holding her hand between both of his. His grip was firm but gentle, as if making sure she wouldn't slip away.   After his outburst hours ago, he had cleaned up and pulled himself together. He no longer wore his usual dark clothes. Instead, he had on a simple white top, trousers, and boots. His dark hair that was usually combed back, now fell loosely over his forehead.   With his elbows resting on the bed, he kept his head bowed, his forehead pressed against their joined hands. His eyes were closed and his breathing was calm and steady.   He simply sat there, lost in his thought while his thumb absently ran over Noelle's knuckles. The steady beeping of the monitors and the soft hum of the machines filled the silence, but he barely noticed. His world had narrowed down to the rise and fall of her chest and the warmth of her skin against his.   Then, all of a sudden, Noelle groaned softly and shifted.   His eyes snapped open