Regret Came Too Late

As the two silently walked on, Ed was following behind Grace like a shadow.

Even though it was still snowing on such a cold night, Grace couldn't help but think of the time they had spent in that pit-two tiny little figures huddled together, not knowing how many nights they had gone through.

Now, years later, they were once again looking at magnolia blossoms in the snow at night.

In an instant, her frustration was replaced by warmth. She couldn't help but ask, "Does it hurt?"

In the dark, the corners of Ed's lips lifted slightly. "Are you asking because you care too much?" he questioned.

Grace realized he always found some way to confirm that she cared and loved him.

She swallowed hard and reached out to tug on his sleeve.

She thought of how these magnolia blossoms had been picked for Ethan and instantly felt a pang of sadness welling up from within her.

It felt like she was a cheating wife suddenly caught by her husband returning home. The guilt was just overwhelming.

She silently intertwined her fingers with his and said, "I'll come to your place in a bit and treat your wound."

"Mm."

"I'll bring you some good food tomorrow," she promised.

"Mm."

something you shouldn't?" Grace's cheeks flushed red. Luckily, it was dark enough that he couldn't see. "You're my boyfriend. Of course, I should be nice to you. Do

a strand of her hair behind her ear, leaning in close, and

tell what "do whatever I want"

ask that at the exact moment she was drowning in

and grunted in response. While she was holding tightly onto his

that instant, the guilt inside her grew ever stronger. She couldn't understand

took a deep breath and said, "Christmas Eve is my brother's birthday. If it's okay, I'd like

suddenly froze in

it felt as if even the

hand back and looked down at the

to reject her. Did he

you've remembered everything..." His voice was

hurried to keep up,

know you've always felt insecure, thinking my feelings for you came out of nowhere. But I've figured it out-I like the vulnerability you show me,

because I've never been good at relying on others, and I enjoy it when someone relies on me. It gives me a sense of fulfillment-something I've never felt

it out all in one breath, then grabbed his wrist.

I'll