143 Echo of the walls

Anastasia experienced a shudder in her heart upon hearing Dante's direct words, and regardless of how much time they spent in each other's company, there were some of his words that always caught her off guard. As his hand around her waist loosened its hold, her bare feet regained their footing against the cold floor, all while his eyes bored into hers in question. 

Dante heard her heart accelerate its rhythm, and to put her at ease, he gently took her hand and placed it on his own chest. Anastasia's eyes widened as she sensed his heartbeat matching hers, and he stated, 

"You aren't alone. You are important to me." His eyes delved intensely into hers. 

Anastasia's lips parted, and she replied, "I am yours to corrupt…" She noticed a sizzle in the air as Dante's hair lost its remaining moisture and turned dry. 

"Without a doubt, in every form and every life." Dante's hand reached for the belt fastening Anastasia's robe before he tugged it free.