"I... I really like you. I know I'm not much, and I can't offer you a life of luxury, but I can promise to be there for you every day. I'll protect you with everything I have. If you don't give us a chance, how will you ever know if we can't fall for each other over time?"
His voice trembled, desperate yet filled with raw sincerity.
Rachel felt a lump forming in her throat.
Once, there had been someone who treated her this way too, not out of pity or obligation, but because he had genuinely cared for her.
Despite all her struggles, that man had respected her.
She didn't push George away. His embrace was warm, almost heartbreakingly so.
But because it was so warm, she hoped one day he would find a woman who could love him the way he deserved.
"George... thank you for liking me," Rachel said softly. "But even with you holding me like this... I still don't feel anything. Do you really think it's worth trying?"
The car fell silent except for his quiet, uneven breathing.
