Chương 89: 10 point

El-Kharis cupped her face gently, his thumb brushing away the tear that had fallen. His electrifying blue eyes softened, a deep well of emotion swirling beneath their intensity. "I don't want to leave either," he murmured, his voice low and filled with the same ache Esteria felt. "But I must. We cannot risk them knowing I'm here. Not yet."

His words made sense, but they did nothing to ease the tightening in her chest. She leaned into his touch, closing her eyes as his hands cradled her cheeks, her tears now flowing freely. Every second he stayed, her heart screamed for him to remain, to defy the rules, but they both knew the consequences were too great.

"I'll be back," he promised, his lips brushing hers in a tender, lingering kiss, as though he was trying to imprint the moment in both of their memories. "Soon, I swear it."

Esteria gripped his wrists, unwilling to let go just yet. "I've missed you so much. Please, don't take too long."