Then, slowly, he rolls to face me, giving me no choice but to loosen my arms. He searches my gaze. “On one condition. You need to promise me something in return.” And to him, I say, “Anything.” His mouth purses, and then he reaches up, spreading his hand over my bare chest, right over my heart. “Keep this beating.” I still. “Just keep your heart beating for me, okay?” His voice breaks, and he glances down, hiding from me like the request is something to be ashamed of.
