Their faces were close, and their eyes met on the same level. He noticed her surprise but didn't detect any signs of rejection, which filled him with joy. He reached out and used his hand to brush away some of her messy hair gently. Once again, Tristan felt his heart swell bigger, and it felt warm when Bella didn't stop him at all.
He finished straightening her hair, then once more, he gazed into her eyes with a loving smile.
"Bella," said Tristan. A warm smile slowly spread across his lips before he continued. "I have often told you I am willing to give up everything for you and Dax. My family is the only thing I care about."
"T-Tristan, but—"
Tristan halted Bella mid-sentence with his finger, gently stroking her red but slightly dry lips.
"I know you must feel guilty, Bella. But, please don't... You don't have to feel like that."
Tristan smiled as he rubbed her warm cheek with his thumb, noticing her shoulder slightly slump.
