Chapter 140: Beneath the Moonlit Words

Thelma Zane’s POV: Aldrich’s eyes followed me closely, his persistence unwavering, as I attempted to retreat deeper into the comfort of the blankets. The thick, warm fabric was my only sanctuary, and yet there he was, pulling gently at the edges, trying to coax me out. “Don’t do that! You need fresh air!” His voice was firm yet laced with concern, though his actions suggested a quiet desperation to get me out of hiding. I resisted, clinging tightly to my self-made fort, and retreated to the farthest side of the bed, as far from him as I could get without actually leaving. “Let’s just talk like this for now!” I called out, my words muffled but my tone clear. “I can’t face you right now. Please, don’t force me!” His sigh was soft, laden with a mix of frustration and patience. He understood my need for space, yet the silence between us felt unbearable. “Fine,” he said, his voice lowering, “you can do whatever you want. It’s fine if you don’t want to look at me, but please... just