Indris stood across from you, his gaze steady but a hint of vulnerability flickering in his pale blue eyes. “I know you didn’t choose this,” he began softly, his voice barely above a whisper, “but believe me, I did this not to trap you, but to protect you… to give you the life you deserve.” He paused, searching your face as if hoping to find a sign that you understood. “I won’t pretend I don’t want you to care for me—Gods, I’ve wanted that for as long as I can remember. But I’d rather have your disdain than see you suffer alone.” His voice grew quieter. “Just… give me a chance. Not to control you, but to prove that I can be someone worth your trust.”