Roman gave her a warm smile. "I understand. Trust me, I know. There aren't any promises that I could make that would convince you to stay here. But if you're willing to try, then I will stand by you every step of the way. And I will protect you whenever you need it."

She smiled back at him reassuringly. "Thank you, Roman."

"It's nothing." He said, returning the smile.

The two remained silent for a few moments, staring into each other's eyes as their gaze lingered, neither of them wanting to break eye contact for fear that something would suddenly interrupt them.

After what felt like hours, both Celine and...