Lariette's eyes flung open, stunned by Ruediger's confession. His words, which had already vanished by the breeze, still rang clearly in her mind.
"I have feelings for you."
Lariette blinked, slowed and dazed, as her gaze remained on Ruediger. She noticed how his lips seemed to quiver as a look of anxiousness flashed across his face. His emerald eyes gleamed under the lights, carrying the same traces of uneasiness.
Ruediger was indeed anxious. He witnessed the moment Lariette's eyes widened in surprise, followed by confusion flickering in them.
'I have shocked her, right? Did I... scare her too?'
Inhaling a deep breath, Ruediger forced himself to speak. He couldn't bear the silence that abruptly surrounded them. He held his gaze on her steady, hoping to present his resolve to Lariette.
