She looked up at him with determination and asked again, “I don't know! Mark, tell me honestly, over these years, have you ever thought of me? What kind of feelings do you have for me? Is my love for you one-sided, or do you love me as much as I love you?"

Although her voice quivered, she managed to express what was on her mind. She thought she was ready to hear his answer.

As long as Mark loved her, she was willing to give up everything. Hearing her question, Mark gently caressed her head, just as he had many years ago.

Cecilia stared at him with unwavering determination.

He understood precisely what she was asking for. She sought his love as a woman desired a man's love and she did not want him to see her as a little girl anymore. She also did not want him to see her as a responsibility to take care of because of her virginity that he had accidentally taken away. That was what she longed for.