Chapter 85: Difference

Did he have feelings for her? Nikolai treasured Ophelia more than anyone else in his life. But did he truly love her? He looked from their intertwined hands up to her face. Her anxious expression and the hopeful smile she wore were unmistakable. She was clearly waiting for his answer, her eyes wide with anticipation. "Maybe," he murmured softly. Her smile brightened at his response, though a hint of confusion remained in her eyes. Her lips parted in surprise before she pressed them together and took a step closer to him. "Tell me," she urged. Nikolai chuckled lightly, his gaze flickering to her hazel-green eyes, which sparkled in the dim light filtering through the ominous clouds outside. They were unusually vibrant and less melancholic today. "Why are you so curious?" he asked, his tone teasing. "I’m bound to be curious," she replied with a laugh. Ophelia’s expression, perpetually innocent, belied her cunning nature—though perhaps she was just as cunning as he was. Both had a s