Author's POV
Seraphina drew in a slow and shaky breath, her chest rising and falling. Though her voice trembled when she spoke, her resolve did not waver. Every word she spoke was laced with unwavering conviction and a hint of anger.
"You must not doubt my feelings for you," she said, her gaze locked onto Lucien's. "And you must not question my sincerity."
Her hand tightened around his. Her hold was weak but unwavering, and Lucien felt the warmth of her skin against his own.
"This… whatever this is between us," she continued in a steadier voice now, "It's not just some feeling that'll fade. I'm not gonna wake up tomorrow and take it back." Sera's voice shook a little as she continued. "I didn't say these things because I was desperate for someone or to have a man in my life!"
She paused for a second to catch her breath. Her body still felt heavy, but she didn't let it drag her down. It seemed she had found some new kind of strength to face her feelings in front of Lucien.
