Page 62 of The Beat of her Heart

“Or it leads to something beautiful,” Addie countered, leaning closer.

Giselle’s gaze softened for a moment, but she quickly masked it. “I prefer to keep things in my control.”

Addie took a breath, frustration bubbling to the surface. “But control isn’t everything. You have to let go sometimes.”

“Letting go can be dangerous,” Giselle said.

“Maybe,” Addie said, “but so is holding on too tight.”

Silence settled between them, heavy with unsaid feelings. Addie wanted to reach out and pull Giselle from the shadows, but the wall around her was impenetrable.

“Want some coffee?” Giselle finally asked.

“Yes, please,” Addie replied, grateful for the distraction.

Giselle stood and walked to the kitchen, her movements purposeful. Addie watched her, noting the tension in her shoulders. Giselle was a woman of strength, yet she hid behind layers of ice.

While Giselle prepared the coffee, Addie tried to gather her thoughts. She knew there was warmth beneath Giselle’s exterior. She just had to find a way to unlock it.

“Do you drink it black?” Giselle called from the kitchen.

“Only when I need to wake up,” Addie replied, forcing a smile.

Giselle returned with two mugs, placing one in front of Addie. The rich aroma filled the air. Addie took a sip, the warmth spreading through her immediately.

“So,” Addie said. “What do you want to talk about?”

“Let’s talk about Sophie,” Giselle suggested. “What does she like to do?”

“She likes to draw,” Addie said with a smile. “And she loves to dance.”

“Dancing?” Giselle looked unconvinced. “Does she take classes?”

Addie nodded. “Yes. She’s quite talented. Maybe I should take some lessons, too,” Addie joked. “I could use the exercise.”

“Good luck with that,” Giselle replied, her tone playful but guarded.

“Come on, you should join me,” Addie encouraged. “We could be a dance duo.”

Giselle laughed lightly. “I don’t think anyone is ready for that.”

“Why not? It would be fun,” Addie said, her heart racing at the thought of bringing Giselle out of her shell.

“Fun isn’t my priority,” Giselle replied, her gaze shuttering.

“Maybe it should be,” Addie said softly.

Giselle’s expression darkened. “Not everyone has the luxury of fun.”

Addie felt the sting of Giselle’s words. “You can find joy in small things. It doesn’t have to be a big deal.”

“Joy is fleeting,” Giselle said firmly.

“But it’s worth it,” Addie insisted. “Don’t you want to feel it?”

Giselle paused, her gaze locking with Addie’s. “Sometimes feeling can hurt more than not feeling.”

Addie leaned forward, her heart aching for Giselle. “But shutting yourself off won’t protect you. It just makes you lonely.”

---