Luka's sobs gradually subsided, and Xavier continued to hold him close, mindful of their fragile connection.
The weight of Luka's pain and uncertainty resonated deep within Xavier's heart, stirring emotions that had long been dormant.
Though he yearned to express his love and offer solace, Xavier knew that patience was paramount in rebuilding the trust shattered by the curse's revelations.
Gently releasing his hold, Xavier cupped Luka's face, his touch tender yet restrained. He studied Luka's tear-stained cheeks and puffy eyes, aching to ease his soulmate's anguish.
"I understand, Luka," Xavier spoke softly, his voice tinged with regret. "Trust takes time, and I don't expect you to open your heart to me fully just yet. But know that I'm here, standing by your side, ready to support you in every way I can."
Luka's gaze met Xavier's, uncertainty clouding his eyes. "I want to believe you, Xavier. I want to trust that you didn't cause any of this. But the doubts and pain are still overwhelming."
Xavier nodded, acknowledging the validity of Luka's reservations. "I know that my words alone won't dispel your doubts. It will take time and understanding. However, I promise to be patient and transparent with you. Together, we'll navigate this intricate web of curses and untangle the truth."
Luka exhaled, a mixture of relief and vulnerability coloring his expression. "Can you... Can you tell me more about our connection? How did you know I was your soulmate?"
Xavier's heart skipped a beat at the request, a glimmer of affection flickering in his eyes. He had long sealed away his emotions, but Luka's presence threatened to unravel those carefully guarded walls.
"Of course," Xavier replied, his voice laced with a tenderness he struggled to conceal. "From the moment I saw you, Luka, playing in the Dreamland Park, I felt an inexplicable pull towards you. It was as if the universe whispered in my ear, confirming that our paths were meant to intertwine."
Luka's gaze softened, a flicker of curiosity mingling with his apprehension. "And the bond? How does it fit into all of this?"
Xavier hesitated for a moment, grappling with the desire to confess his love openly. However, he understood that patience was the key to mending their connection, even if it pained him to suppress his emotions.
"The bond is a testament to the depth of our connection," Xavier explained, his voice measured yet tinged with longing. "It allows us to share our thoughts, emotions, and experiences. It's meant to be a source of strength and understanding between soulmates, a bond forged by fate itself."
Luka nodded slowly, absorbing Xavier's words. "I want to learn more, Xavier. I want to understand everything about our bond and the truth behind the curse. Can you promise to share it with me, piece by piece, even if it's painful?"
Xavier's gaze softened, a glimmer of love flickering in his eyes before he swiftly concealed it. "I promise, Luka. I'll reveal the truth to you, one step at a time. Though it may be difficult, I'll do my best to guide you through the revelations that lie ahead."
A tentative smile graced Luka's lips, a glimmer of hope rekindled in his eyes. "Thank you, Xavier. Your patience means the world to me."
Xavier reached out, gently brushing a strand of hair behind Luka's ear. He longed to express the depth of his affection, to hold Luka close and banish the doubts that plagued his soulmate's heart. But he knew that rebuilding trust required time, empathy, and understanding.
"I care for you deeply, Luka," Xavier confessed, his voice laden with hidden emotion. "Though I may not show it in the way you deserve just yet, please know that my love for you burns brightly, even if it remains shielded for now."
Luka's eyes widened, a flicker of surprise mingling with his gratitude. "I... I appreciate your honesty, Xavier. And in time, I hope to reciprocate the love that you've shown me."
With a silent understanding, they embraced each other once more, their connection stronger than before.
Luka's heart, though guarded, held a glimmer of hope, while Xavier's love burned within, eager to guide them through the shadows and towards a future where trust and affection would intertwine.