Page 72 of August and the Night

"I love you," I murmur.

Layla turns her head away slightly, her expression vulnerable. I take a deep breath, a sense of resignation settling over me. I can't blame her for her hesitance, for the walls she has built around her heart. But I am determined to break through them, to show her the depths of my sincerity.

Kneeling in front of her, I hold her hands in mine and press a soft kiss to each of them. "How long is this going to last, little dove?" I ask, my tone gentle but earnest.

Layla's lips curve into a small smile, and a soft chuckle escapes her. The sound is soothing to my soul.

"Are you finally starting to forgive me?" I ask, a hopeful glint in my eyes.

Her nod is accompanied by a soft chuckle, and as our gaze locks, her eyes finally stop harboring hate for me, and I smile wide.

56

Layla

It has been week of me lying in my hospital bed, under the watchful eyes of the nurses and doctors to ensure my smooth recovery. The accident has shaken me to my core, woke me up to how fragile our existence truly is. It has taught me that life is too short to hold onto grudges, to let past mistakes dictate our future.

And in the midst of this revelation, I find myself forgiving August. The weight of resentment that has burdened my heart for so long has finally lifted. I am not even resentful of the driver that crashed into me; it was an accident, and she has sent flowers to me every day since I have been admitted to the hospital.

During the days in the hospital, I have had ample time to reflect on my feelings, to analyze the way August has cared for me.

He has been by my side, day and night, refusing to leave even for a moment.

He has tended to my needs with his usual eagerness—he has washed my hair, dressed me, and fed me while in the hospital, too scared that I would hurt myself or the stitches.

He treats me like I a china doll, and while it gets overbearing at times, I know it is driven mainly by his love and fear of losing me. The realization brings a warm glow to my chest, a sense of comfort that I cannot deny.

Lily's visits have been a bright spot in my days, her presence offering a sense of normalcy amidst the medical routines. She has come to share stories, to laugh with me, and to express her concern. The only time August would leave to change his clothes and shower is when Lily is in the room with me.

He caters to my every need, making sure I lack for nothing.

The doctor enters the room, a warm smile on her face, breaking me out of my thoughts. She delivers the news I have been hoping for, confirming that I am finally cleared to leave the hospital. However, her next words come with a caveat—another week of bed rest awaits me at home.

With gratitude, I nod in understanding as August's concerned gaze remains fixed on me.

As I slowly get dressed, I notice August's unwavering attention. He is by my side instantly, assisting with each movement, his touch gentle and caring. He helps me slip on my shoes and even takes the time to braid my hair, his actions melting my heart.

"I can't believe I'm saying this, but I'm actually going to miss having you do my hair," I quip, a small smile tugging at my lips.

He smirks in response, his eyes warm with affection. "Well, I will style it for you whenever you want," he retorts playfully. With a chuckle, I swing my legs over the edge of the hospital bed, standing up carefully with his help.

I mention that I'd call Lily to pick me up, but August's scowl catches me off guard. He shakes his head, his expression serious. "You're not going home alone," he declares firmly.

I arch an eyebrow, about to protest, but before I can say anything, he scoops me up over his shoulder. I gasp in surprise, my hands instinctively gripping his back as I laugh despite myself.

"August, put me down!" I demand between laughter and mock indignation, playfully patting his back.

His chuckle rumbles beneath my grasp, and he carries me out of the hospital room. Once we are settled in the car, he makes sure I am buckled in securely before taking his place behind the wheel. The engine hums to life, and we start our journey.

Carefully stepping out of the car after we reach, I glance around in anticipation, only to be met with a sight that leaves me speechless. My mouth hangs open as I take in the scene before me—the old house, the place that has held memories both good and painful, is now replaced by a new and breathtaking home.

Turning to face August, my shock mirrored in my eyes, I stammer, "When did you do this? Why?"

He approaches me, his gaze unwavering as he whispers into my ear, "Did you not say that every corner of the old house reminds you of the deceit?"

Tears well up in my eyes as the enormity of his gesture sinks in. He has listened to my words, understood the depth of my pain, and taken action to heal it. I find myself taking cautious steps towards the new house, its grandeur and beauty enchanting me. The pristine walls and sparkling windows seem to shine with promise—a fresh start, a new beginning.

I turn around to find August kneeling before me, a small box in his hands. My heart races as he looks up at me, a mixture of vulnerability and love in his eyes. As he speaks, his words wrap around me like a warm embrace, each syllable reaching deep into my heart.

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