When Zack returned to the bedroom, he found Bella struggling to sit up. He hurried to her side, slipping an arm under her shoulders to help her. Gently, he adjusted the pillows behind her back.
Bella offered him a faint smile. "Thank you."
Zack settled down beside her, his hands resting lightly on her arms. His gaze was filled with tenderness and yearning. "Taking care of you is my duty," he said softly. "Don't thank me for that."
Zack's heart raced as he studied her face. She looked so much like Rose that it was almost unbearable. Overcome by emotion, he leaned in closer, lowering his head toward her lips.
But Bella flinched, her hands pressing against his chest to push him away. "Zack, please, no…"
Zack froze, pulling back as a shadow of disappointment clouded his face. His gaze fell on his empty hands. "Why, Rose? Why did you push me away? We're engaged…"
