Natalia watched Axton as he tried to stand without her help. It looked like he was in a lot of pain, and she wondered if things would be different if she had let the love she felt for him take over on that night.

"Axton, I can help you."

"No. I do not want your help. How am I to wait for you on our wedding, then?"

Natalia sighed and blinked back tears. "You do not have to try so hard."

He laughed. "I do. It is for you." He pushed himself off the bed, depending mostly on his right hand and right leg. "I feel like I have not...