"Thank you," she whispers, blushing when her eyes wander over your bare chest. "It was... incredible." She sits up, wrapping her arms around her knees and leaning back against the carpet. "I don't think I could ever forget that."

The silence stretches between you, but neither of you seem in any hurry to break it. The air feels heavy with what might have been said, but isn't. Finally, she looks up at you and asks, "So... where do we go from here?"

Her heart sinks a little at the news. She knew it was only a matter of time before you had to move on, but hearing the words spoken aloud makes them feel so final. But then she remembers your promise and her spirits lift again. "You'll come back for me?" she asks, hope shining in her eyes.

"I said I would," you reply with a small smile, "and I always keep my promises." Your fingers brush against hers where they rest on the carpet, sending a shiver down her spine. "