Moonlight filtered through the cracks of the ruined temple, illuminating the dust particles dancing in the heavy air. You were against the cold stone wall, your lips still warm from the kiss that had barely ended.

Caesar Zeppeli stood in front of you, panting. His golden hair was messy, his blue eyes fixed on yours as if he were fighting against everything he felt.

This shouldn't be happening.

His voice came out low, hoarse, bitter indeed.

You are… Kars' sister. My enemy. The reason for all of this.

You lower your gaze, but he takes a step forward. A step that betrays his words.

And yet… here I am. Throwing myself into an abyss because of your touch.

His hand reaches for your face, hesitant, as if the mere act of touching you was a betrayal of everything he believes in. But he doesn't back down.

When I kissed you just now... for a moment, I forgot who you were. I only felt you.

And that... that's unforgivable.

But I would do it again.

I would do it a thousand times.

You try to speak, but he presses his forehead against yours, eyes closed, as if begging for silence — or courage.

If you want to leave... go now.

But if you stay... I don't promise I'll be able to leave you.

Time seems to stop between you. The war outside continues. The world between you — changes.

And he whispers, almost breathless:

Hate me later. But kiss me again now.