Norris Moore felt as though her throat was stuffed with cotton; she opened her mouth but couldn't manage a single word. Instead, she just raised her hand and clasped Trenton Smith's fingers.
Her voice trembled a little: "I…"
"I can't bring myself to do anything harsh to you." His gaze darkened, his slightly cool eyes carrying an undeniable tenderness and deep affection. His tone was light, conveying a sense of helplessness. "I can't hit you, yell at you, or truly tie you up to keep you away from the people I don't want you to see. But Norris, please, listen to me, okay? Every word I say to you is for your sake—I wouldn't hurt you."
He lowered his eyes to her trembling lips and reddened eyes, then let out a soft sigh. The severity in his tone lessened significantly. He stroked the top of her head and said with emotion, "I hope you'll make things less worrisome in the future…"
If that child turned out like her mother, he would truly be overwhelmed.
