He'll share a secret with her. He is afraid, too.

He's not afraid of her. He's afraid of letting go of control, and of simply being in love.

The world might end. Or, it might begin. Both are equally as frightening to him.

When did she hear him day that?

Being afraid does not mean losing. He's been afraid before. He's also stubborn. He's sure she's noticed that about him.

Take a leap of faith?

Take his hand...

She never has to make herself small for him, or with him. He may call her his Little Star, but she is not small.

His Little Star keeps running....

She's been running from him for quite some time. As well as from herself.

Round and round and round they go....

"I expect you to face me and yourself. Stop running. Be who you were born to be."

"Your world, your view, your existence is so limited, Alina. If you wish to see yourself as a slave, then a slave you will be. You could be a force to be reckoned with, and you hide and hold back."

"You are so young it tears at my heart." One day, she will see the world as she dies, perhaps.

Little Stars....

He refuses to engage in an argument with her. He's been around this weary world for too long, and he's learned the hard way that arguments with Alina are futile. Instead, he merely leans against the wall and examines his fingernails.

👈May be a jerk, but he's honest about it.