Chapter 181
Chapter 181:
Cristian let out a light, amused chuckle. “Of course, I have flaws. I’m just a regular person, after all.”
“Really? I haven’t noticed any,” Fernanda noted, a tone of admiration in her voice. “To me, you seem utterly flawless.”
Cristian responded with a smile. “Well, I certainly wouldn’t want to tarnish the image you have of me. I’ve been trying hard to make a good impression, which has finally earned me the pleasure of your company for a meal. If I had any obvious flaws, I’d probably find myself on your blacklist by now.”
“That’s absurd!” Fernanda exclaimed, instantly dismissing the idea.
“To me, imperfections make a person seem more genuine.”
“So, are you saying I’m not being genuine with you now?” he queried, his tone laced with a mixture of humor and challenge.
Indeed, Fernanda harbored such thoughts.
To her, Cristian seemed almost celestial, an angelic presence meant to aid and comfort her.
His unwavering support had carried her through many hardships.
With him, this city, which was new to her, felt less intimidating. His presence cast a soothing warmth, much like the candle flickering softly on their table—a gentle, luminous beacon in her life.
Yet, the nagging fear that this candle might extinguish, that Cristian might someday depart, clutched at her heart with a relentless, painful squeeze.
Cristian stood up slowly, his movements deliberate as he bridged the distance between them.
He rested his hands on her shoulders with a tender firmness, his eyes locked onto hers with a deep, steady gaze.
The warmth from his palms penetrated the thin material of her blouse, infusing her skin with a comforting heat.
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They stood so close that she could see her own reflection mirrored in his eyes.
“Does this feel unreal to you?” he murmured gently. “Don’t be scared, Fernanda. I’m here, right in front of you.”
Cristian stood there, just a step away, his gaze firmly meeting hers, while his hand rested lightly on her shoulder. His voice carried warmth, and his presence radiated quiet reassurance. The gentle heat from his touch seemed to travel through her, eventually settling in her heart, leaving her feeling calm and comforted.
Cristian offered a faint smile, let go of her shoulder, but instead of going back to his seat, he chose to sit down beside her. The seating area was roomy enough that even with them sitting side by side, it didn’t feel crowded in the slightest.
Fernanda caught a faint woody scent lingering on his shirt, a fragrance that felt both soothing and calming.
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