Aria's footsteps slowly brought her closer to Reed, her eyes never left his.

The closer she got, the more the nervousness in her chest faded, replaced by a warmth that spread through her entire body.

Reed watched her approach with a smile on his face, but his eyes were filled with emotions he couldn't hide.

When Aria finally reached him, her uncle gently placed her hand in Reed's.

Reed immediately closed his fingers around hers.

“Take care of my niece,” her uncle said with a warm smile.

Reed nodded without hesitation.

“With everything I have.”

Her uncle smiled, then gently patted Reed's shoulder before stepping aside.

Reed turned his full...