......
Ernest had never cared so strongly for a girl before.
It was never to this degree with Celeste.
He knew Celeste was very lonely, but it was never overly distressing.
Compared to this, Leah had suffered too much.
It was commendable, the way she remained optimistic and repelled any sort of self-pity. She always stood up tall, never leaving a trace of vulnerability.
How could anyone not feel for such a strong girl?
"Do you need to keep looking at me with such sympathetic eyes?" Leah smiled helplessly and protested, "What are you doing? Hey, don't look at me like that, okay?"
Only then did Ernest smile lightly and say, "I thought you would need my comfort. I was ready to give you a shoulder to lean on, but it looks like that's not necessary."
"What?" Leah was quite shocked. "You would lend me your shoulder?"
"Of course." Ernest looked at her very seriously. Her eyes were burning, and she looked very serious.