"I'm sorry," she whispered, her voice barely audible over the music. "I never knew…"
"You need not apologize," Griffin interjected softly, cutting off her words before they could fully form. His voice held a calm reassurance, and he accompanied it with a gentle smile that seemed to warm the cool night air around them. "I'm aware of your past, Selvina, and I understand why you're reluctant. But," he paused, his gaze searching hers with a quiet intensity, "you can give yourself a chance to trust me. I promise, I won't break that trust."
As their dance gradually slowed, they both came to a stop. The music continued around them, the festive atmosphere of the town seemingly distant now, as if they were in a world of their own.
Selvina stood frozen, her thoughts a tangled mess of emotions. She searched for words, but nothing came out. All she could do was stare at him, her mind racing with uncertainty and confusion.
