Hana barely processed the elevator ride. Kai's confession echoed in her head like a bell that wouldn't stop ringing.
I'm in love with Hana.
When they reached the suite, he opened the door and led her inside.
"Hana, are you okay?" he asked gently.
She nodded weakly. "Just tired."
Her pulse was still erratic, her breath shallow.
He crouched before her. "You're sweating."
"I'm fine," she insisted, forcing a smile.
He didn't look convinced, but he fetched her pajamas anyway. "Change into these. I'll wait outside."
Her fingers caught his wrist. "No. Stay."
He froze. "Then I'll turn around."
"Stay until I fall asleep," she whispered.
Concern darkened his eyes. "Hana… don't lie to me. Are you okay?"
"I'm fine." She grabbed the pajamas and fled into the bathroom.
Once inside, she pressed her trembling hand against her chest. Her heart felt like it was tearing through her ribs.
"I can't die now," she choked out, tears spilling. "Not yet… please, not yet."
She splashed cold water on her face, forcing herself to breathe. The reflection that stared back looked fragile, fading.
When she stepped out, Kai was still waiting.
"Better?" he asked.
"Yes," she whispered.
He nodded, guiding her to bed. "Then rest. I'll stay here."
She crawled under the covers, and after a pause, whispered, "Can you hold me?"
Kai's chest tightened, but he nodded, pulling her gently into his arms.
"Sweet dreams, Seo Hana," he murmured, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead.
Hana's tears slipped silently into his shirt as she thought—
If this is my last night… at least I'm with him.