28. Patience and Understanding

Rafael's POV:

I hurriedly moved away as she opened her eyes. She met my gaze, smiled, and turned away in her sleepy state.

I returned to my place, rearranging myself uncomfortably on the couch. I'm willing to go to any extent for that smile, and sleeping on the sofa is nothing compared to the lengths I'm willing to go. I dozed off while glancing at her lovely face.

I sat up again when I heard Astrid gasp. Sweating profusely, she moved around in her spot. "No... no," she said, taking a defensive stance. "Leave me alone; I don't want to go anywhere with you guys," she...