My breath caught as Arianna descended the stairs, and my inner thoughts ceased. I inhaled sharply, the air palpable in her presence. I stood, my body moving of its own accord until I reached the base of the staircase. Her gaze locked on mine as I offered my hand to assist her with the descent, pulled closer by her spell. Warmth radiated into me as I caressed her fingertips. I guided her forward. Her feet touched the landing, but I couldn’t break the compulsion I fell under when she was near. Instead, I stayed there for a heartbeat longer than I should, soaking in these last moments with her.
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