Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan) novel Chapter 2088

"Stick by me, just like the old times, as friends, but no more giving me the cold shoulder, okay?" Norah's voice broke with emotion. "We'll see how it goes, and if you still don't fall for me, I'll back off."

The finality in her voice was palpable.

Xavier didn't respond immediately, mulling over her words. Finally, he nodded slowly, "Alright, we can do that."

A tentative smile blossomed on Norah's tear-stained face, touching something deep within Xavier's heart.

She chuckled at herself for feeling a flicker of hope and for being so easily pleased. Xavier hadn't even agreed to anything significant yet her heart was already bubbling with joy.

Quickly wiping away her tears, she stretched out her arms, a mix of awkwardness and boldness in her voice, "Can I hug you?"

"No—"

Before Xavier could finish, Norah lunged forward and wrapped her arms around him, pressing tightly against his chest.

To be this close to him, she had mustered all her strength and courage!

Xavier intended to push her away, but his left arm was injured and couldn't lift, and his right hand seemed to lose its strength, especially as he heard her muffled sobs against his chest. It was like thousands of ants biting his heart, a tingling mix of pain and numbness.

Eventually, Norah's crying ceased, but her grip tightened. Since she'd gone this far, she might as well see it through.

Let her hold on a little longer; it was the least he could do to make it up to her.

Even if Xavier had never seen Norah as anything more than a friend, the softness of her body against his and the delicate scent that filled his nostrils made it impossible to ignore the sensation of her embrace.

He frowned, "Are you done hugging me?"

"Not yet!" Norah whined. "I had a terrible night's sleep, my head is killing me."

Xavier was speechless.

Norah hiccuped, then asked, "How bad is your injury? Where does it hurt?"

"You're actually leaning right on it!"

Norah jerked back, her eyes wide with shock.

Xavier chuckled, "Thought you were braver!"