CHAPTER 89 A Battle Between Heart and Mind

　　Avery's POV

　　The days in Bloodmoon stretched longer than I had anticipated, and despite my initial resistance, I couldn't deny that Dylan made it harder for me to keep my distance.

　　I wanted to hate him. I wanted to push him away, to hold on to my anger like a shield. But every time I built up my defenses, he shattered them with quiet persistence.

　　"You should eat more," Dylan murmured one evening, setting a tray of warm food in front of me. "You still look pale."

　　I eyed the meal but refused to pick up the spoon. "I'm fine."

　　He exhaled softly, leaning back in his chair as if he had all the time in the world. "Avery, you were poisoned. You need strength to recover. Just eat."

　　"Why do you care?" I shot back, folding my arms. I had had about enough of him and everyone else fussing over me.

　　Dylan didn't hesitate. "Because I love you."

　　The words were so simple, so effortless, that they sent a jolt straight through me.