"What do you mean, Miss Ashford? What's wrong?"
Liam watched as Amelie's cheeks glistened with tears, each drop tugging at his heart. Her distress was a knife to his soul, and he couldn't bear to see her in pain. "Miss Ashford, please talk to me," he said gently, stepping closer.
Amelie took a deep breath, her chest rising and falling with a mix of hesitation and doubt. Regardless of her efforts, her voice remained a trembling whisper.
"Mr. Bennett, when you said you wanted me as your wife... were you serious?"
Without a second thought, Liam reached out, cupping her face in his big hands. Her skin felt warm and soft beneath his touch. He lifted her chin, ensuring their eyes met, and tenderly wiped away her tears with his thumbs.
"As serious as a heart attack, Miss Ashford. I don't think I can be more transparent about being in love," he confessed, his voice unwavering.
