The first time she cried because she didn't want him to go.
Rafael cupped her face gently, his thumb brushing the tears away. "Of course I'll come back. You're the only reason I'd want to." And with that, he kissed her forehead,
"Hey… don't say that," Rafael murmured, seeing the tears welling in her eyes again. He gently cupped her face, his thumb brushing across her cheek. "Why wouldn't I come back? My whole life is right here. By your side."
He paused, his voice soft but certain. "I love you, Mara. I'll wrap this up real fast, and when I return—"
He trailed off, his words hanging in the air like a promise not yet sealed.
Mara looked up at him, voice barely a whisper. "And when you return…?"
Rafael smiled, eyes locked on hers. "You'll say yes to me."
Mara blinked, her heart skipping. "If I say yes now… will you come back faster?"
He chuckled softly, his forehead resting against hers. "Well, yes… that would help a lot."
