Arrival Of A Friend

Justin's voice grew firm as he added, "Until then, stay away from your mother. My people will keep you updated about her condition, but you can't meet her anyway right now."

"Is there a reason you're asking me to stay away from her?" she asked, her voice tinged with suspicion.

"If I said yes, would you trust me and listen?" Justin countered, his tone steady but serious.

She studied him for a long moment, searching his face for answers, before finally replying, "Sure."

Justin's gaze softened as his hand gently caressed her cheek. Leaning closer, he captured her lips in a tender kiss. Natalie didn't pull away; instead, she responded, her lips moving softly against his.

Not wanting to suffocate her in her weak condition, he ended the kiss quickly but stayed close, his breath warm against her lips as he whispered:

"Why do you have to be so understanding instead of demanding? It makes me feel guilty for keeping things from you."