Chapter156: Paths

Arthur, determined and serious, ignored Mayara's protests and pulled her closer. With a firm movement, he lifted her into his arms, causing her to let out a small sound of surprise. - Arthur, what are you doing? - Mayara tried to protest, her voice firm, but he paid no attention. She pointed to his forehead, still bandaged from previous injuries. - You should be resting! - she insisted, worried. - Not carrying weight. However, he looked at her with intensity, his hands firmly around her, forcing her to maintain eye contact. - Look at me, Mayara - Arthur said, his voice low but filled with an urgency she couldn't ignore. Reluctantly, Mayara did as he asked, her eyes meeting his. The intensity in Arthur's gaze made her fall silent, her heart racing. He was looking at her in a way she had never seen before, something beyond worry, beyond pain, something deeper. - I need you to understand something - he continued, his voice now almost a whisper. - No matter what happens, I will be here for