Tears welled up in Tatiana's eyes, and her eyes were filled with uncontained sadness.

Maverick took out a handkerchief from his pocket and wiped her tears away like a perfect gentleman, his actions soft and careful. "It's okay. It's a thing of the past. I won't let anything happen to you again." He coaxed her in a gentle voice, his voice extremely sincere.

Tatiana tucked a strand of hair between her ear and sighed dejectedly, looking frail and beautiful, giving one the urge to protect. "I know. Returning here after such a long period made me emotional. I'm sorry for letting you see this…"

Before Tatiana could continue, a waiter...