He let out those words, louder than he intended to, and it echoed throughout the courtyard.
Yue Ning froze, eyes wide with surprise. Her heart thudded in her chest, and she gulped softly.
For a long time, neither of them moved. The wind rustled through the trees, carrying the weight of the confession between them.
Huo Feng's eyes widened slightly, as if realizing what he'd just said. His jaw tightened, but he didn't take it back. He couldn't—when it was the truth.
"I love you, Yue Ning," he repeated, his voice softer this time, almost a plea.
Yue Ning stood rooted to the spot, unable to breathe, and unable to think.
Her mission, the danger, everything faded away, momentarily forgetting about it. All that remained was the man before her—the man who had just professed his love to her.
Her chest beat rapidly. She bit her lips as her gaze fixated on Huo Feng who had a determined expression.
