HAZEL (AUTHOR POV) Time moved forward, and with every passing day, the invisible wall between Xander and Hazel seemed to crack further. The coldness was still there, wrapping around Xander like a thick coat, but underneath it, the warmth was slowly seeping out, impossible to hide anymore.Hazel had learned to read him like an open book. She knew that when he shouted, it was often because he was worried. When he turned his face away, it was because he couldn't handle the intensity of his own feelings. And when he acted like he didn't care, it was because he cared too much.One sunny afternoon, Hazel was in the garden, watering the plants. She was wearing a simple dress, her hair tied back loosely. She looked peaceful, a small smile on her face as she touched the flowers.She had gained a little weight, thanks to Xander secretly making sure she was fed. Her cheeks were slightly fuller, her skin had a little color, and she looked more alive than eve
Read more