Chapter 186: Flame of Obsession
"Ash...?"
As soon as Ash heard her voice, his knees slowly buckled beneath him, and he gently knelt beside Elysia’s bed. His hands were visibly trembling, not from fear, but from a storm of emotions that he had kept buried deep inside.
Yet despite the shaking, he reached forward and held her hand, his fingers wrapping around hers with a care so gentle, as if he feared even the slightest pressure might shatter her.
His lips moved slowly, and his voice, though quiet, carried the weight of everything he had been holding in.
"Y-Yeah... it’s me."
Elysia gave a faint smile when she heard him. It was soft and light, yet for Ash, it was like the world had just begun breathing again.
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Before she could say anything else, he lowered his head, resting his forehead against the back of her hand as if her touch was the only thing keeping him grounded at that moment.
A single tear escaped from the corner of his eye, trailing down his cheek without resistance.
I’m glad... I’m really glad you’re still here.
"I’m sorry... I really am. I shouldn’t have tried to keep my distance from you in the beginning. I thought staying away was the right choice, but..."
His voice shook slightly as he continued, and his hold on her hand became a little firmer, almost desperate.
"It’s always because of me that you get hurt. I’m sorry, Elysia... I’m truly sorry."