'Dear... Dear... Dear...'
The word repeated constantly in Soren's mind, echoing in an endless loop as he stood frozen, staring blankly at Ethea. He could hardly process that those words had actually just escaped her lips.
In that exact moment, the brightly decorated living room seemed to fade into a blur. In his eyes, she looked incredibly beautiful and bright, radiating a warmth so intense that he felt almost blinded by it.
This sudden rush of emotion completely paralyzed his analytical mind, leaving him utterly defenseless against her gentle gaze.
Forcing down the lump in his throat, Soren broke the spell with a quiet cough. He gave a slow nod, his voice a little tight as he spoke.
"T-thank you," he said softly. "Truly."
Aunt Clara stepped forward right then, a knowing smile on her face as she reached out. "Alright, let's get you out of the entryway. Go on, give me the box and sit down."
