His fingers tightened slightly around the ring box.
“All I know is that I can’t imagine my life without you in it.”
Amara’s entire body turned rigid.
Shock completely filled her face.
For several seconds, she could only stare at him speechlessly.
Elias rose to his feet again. His hand reached for hers carefully, almost cautiously, like he was afraid she would pull away.
“During our marriage,” he said quietly, “the only reason I kept my distance from you was because you were unwell.”
His jaw tightened.
“It was difficult for me too.”
Amara’s eyes flickered.
“And I’m sorry,” he continued softly. “I’m sorry for not being there for you during your treatment.”
His thumb brushed lightly against her fingers.
“I’ll never let you face anything alone again. I promise.”
Amara’s eyes slowly reddened.
“You hurt me too much, Elias,” she whispered.
The words made his expression tighten with pain.
“I know.”
Her voice trembled slightly.
“How are you even going to make up for all of that?”
Elias held her gaze for a few long seconds, his expression steady but raw in a way he rarely allowed anyone to see.
Then he spoke quietly, his voice low and certain.
“I’ll give you myself,” he said. “Everything I own. Everything I have.” His throat tightened slightly as he continued, eyes never leaving hers. “Even my life.”
A pause.
His fingers brushed lightly against hers.
“You own me now.”
Amara’s breathing faltered.
Then she suddenly pushed against his chest lightly, overwhelmed by everything happening too fast.
But Elias caught her wrist gently and pulled her back toward him.
Before she could say anything else, he lowered his head and kissed her again.
This time, the kiss was slower.
