"Well, if you have something to say, just say it." He actually hoped she would say something.
At least let him know that she still loves him and is reluctant to leave him.
Valentine hesitated for a moment, then finally mustered the courage and said, "Can I... can I continue to stay at... your place..."
"As you wish."
Mark's furrowed brows relaxed. Inside, he felt a bit relieved. He loathed her timidity and even more loathed her readiness to leave at any moment, which left him feeling uneasy.
Why couldn't she be a bit more resolute, a bit more decisive? It made him grit his teeth in anger, yet he was helpless.
"Thank you! Thank you..."
Valentine was delighted, truly delighted, and seized the opportunity to ask eagerly, "Could you come back and stay?"
"No!"
Mark rejected flatly, although he wanted to return and stay with her, now was not the right time.
