"You're already amazing, Naomi."
His voice was uncharacteristically gentle, like that of a patient guide:
"It's the combination of your tough exterior and soft heart that makes you who you are—unique and irreplaceable."
"If you know you won't regret it, why let what other people say affect you? They aren't you. They can't possibly make a choice from your perspective."
He lowered his gaze slightly, a faint smile playing on his lips. "I'm glad you're willing to share your feelings with me."
"I used to think you were indestructible. Now I see that you have a soft side, that you can feel lost and helpless..."
His gaze fixed for a moment, as if he were lost in thought.
Naomi was stunned. The next second, she was pulled into a warm embrace. A light kiss landed on the tips of her hair, and he gently took the phone from her hand. "Stop looking at this. Get some sleep. This will all pass."
