Kissing Her Photograph

"Master, I can't just leave. " Anna blurted out, her eyes brimming with tears, "I - I'd rather die than live without you."

She clung onto his arm, her body begging him with every ounce of strength she had left to change his mind.

Jean, however, was unyielding. He gently pried her hands off his arm, his gaze steady.

"Anna," he began, his voice as firm as a judge delivering a verdict, "You might think that now, but trust me, you will be unhappy here. "

"But, Master... do you even love me? All this time, as I poured out my heart and professed my unwavering love for you, I longed for a response. Yet, the silence remained, leaving me wondering, questioning if my presence mattered to you. Did you not desire my companionship, to have me faithfully by your side, cherishing every moment together? answer me now." Anna asked, her voice barely above a whisper. She held her breath, her heart pounding so hard it felt like it might rip out of her chest at any moment.

Looking into her eyes, Jean saw