Three weeks later, after completing the integration work, Lyanna returned to Valdris. She wanted a break. The constant work was exhausting especially given her fragile mental state, which seemed to be deteriorating by the day.
She was walking in the gardens at night when Roland called her from behind.
"Lyanna! May I join you?"
"Of course."
They walked in silence.
"Lyanna." He said, stopping near a stone bench overlooking the valley. "I want to tell you something."
Lyanna turned to look at him, a little surprised by the seriousness of his tone.
"These past weeks, watching you here…seeing you smile, seeing you work…" He paused and gently took her hand. "I've developed feelings for you."
Lyanna's breath caught.
"I know you're married." Roland said quickly. "I know it's impossible and this is terrible timing. But I can't stop myself. If you ever decide to stay here permanently, to leave that life behind, to end your marriage and build something new. I would cherish you.
