Chapter 87

　　But Pedro was calm. At least his expression didn't show anger. He turned his body to face me, stretched out, and grabbed my hand, which lay on my knee.

　　"Cora, I will change. I won't treat you like before again."

　　I let Pedro hold my hand. His hand was big and warm, completely covering my hand in his palm. The touch of his palm was familiar but also strange.

　　I suddenly hoped that he could hold my hand forever. Those words he said might be the gentlest words I had ever heard from him.

　　But... But a rational voice in my head told me if I went back, I would return to the inferior and miserable Cora as before.

　　I forced myself to say, "Pedro, I wish you could let me go. Really."

　　Then, I withdrew my hand out of his.

　　Pedro looked depressed. He looked like he was hurt. I hadn't seen such a kind of expression on Pedro's face before. I felt my heart soften.

　　"Is it because of Javon? A stranger you have known for a short time?" Pedro said.