Chapter 207

A flicker of uncertainty danced across Michael's features as he awaited Ariel's response, his heart racing with anticipation.

When her words finally reached his ears, a rush of relief flooded through him, mingled with a profound sense of joy and gratitude. "I see your point," he murmured, his voice tinged with a hint of vulnerability. "So, would you be my girl? Or not? As we progress, I would step up the relationship. I would like to know now. No time to think."

Without hesitation, Ariel nodded, her eyes shimmering with emotion as she spoke.

"Okay," she said softly, her voice carrying a weight of conviction. "I would take your word for that. You already know I love you. I did the approaching between me and you. That alone should tell you what I feel for you. It isn't slight, and it shouldn't be taken lightly."

Ariel's heart sank as Michael gently halted her advance, his touch sending a shiver down her spine.

She had expected him to reciprocate her gesture, to seal their newfound bo