CHARLOTTE'S POV
What Kimi described as love pierced my heart deeply. It shattered me into fragments, conjuring memories of my dad. He left this world when I was just seven, taking a piece of my heart with him. After his death, my mom seemed to shut me out completely; she wanted nothing to do with me. The cruel things she said left a lasting scar. She told me my father died because of me and that he never loved me. Those words echoed in my mind, filling me with despair. It felt as if Kimi was articulating the bond my dad and I once had, a bond that now felt irrevocably broken.
"What about your inner struggles? Can you truly love someone who despises herself?"
Kimi appeared to be deep in contemplation. I gently tapped her shoulder, and she turned to face me. Locking eyes with mine, she simply replied, "Yes."
"Why?" I questioned her, feeling perplexed. How is it possible to love someone who despises herself? Someone who constantly feels inadequate? How could anyone possibly love me?
"We all have our inner struggles and imperfections. I promise you this: my love for you will never waver, and nothing could ever make me feel hate toward you. Although I've known you for less than a week, I'm committed to being by your side. So please, Char, allow the walls you've built to come down. Let me share in your pain; I'm here to carry it with you, and I assure you I won't hurt you. You deserve the very best, and I love you despite what anyone else may say. Remember, my love for you is genuine."
Kimi's tears streamed down her cheeks as she confessed her love for me, her gaze unwavering. Every word she spoke made my heart race. Unable to resist, I leaned in and kissed her, deepening the embrace as she surrendered to the moment. Though I was unsure of my actions, an instinct whispered that it felt right. But as I kissed her, my mother's warnings echoed in my mind, causing me to pull away. Overwhelmed, I fled, tears welling up in my eyes. I longed to be with her, but I feared my inner demons would only bring her pain. Being with me could threaten her very existence.
I was determined to shield her, and I realized what actions I needed to take.