69 The Unspoken Nights

Lily sat up, her heart racing from the unexpected proximity to Michael. His deep, penetrating gaze made her feel as though he was looking right into her soul. She fumbled with her words, trying to form a coherent explanation. "Yes, I... I stayed because Martha was worried about you. I thought you might need help during the night," she said, her voice tinged with uncertainty. Michael propped himself up on one elbow, studying her with an intensity that made her heart skip a beat. "You didn't have to. I would have been fine." Lily avoided his gaze, feeling a strange mix of emotions. "I know, but I couldn't just leave you in that state. It didn't seem right." A small smile played on Michael's lips. "So, you do care about me, after all." Lily's cheeks flushed at his words. "It's not about caring. It's about doing the right thing. Anyone would have done the same." "But you did it, Lily. Not anyone else," Michael said softly, his eyes never leaving hers. The room fell sil