Maria woke up in a bed she didn't recognize. Sleeping in a chair on the opposite side of the room was Robin. He was roused when Miss Heliotrope walked in and exclaimed, "Oh, Maria! You're awake! Oh, I was so worried! your shoulder was so damaged, and I wasn't sure if you would be able to use it. But it's okay, because the doctor said it would be fine! I'm so relieved!" At this time, Robin awkwardly cleared his throat. "Oh," said Miss Heliotrope. Then it dawned on her. "Oooohhh, I'll just leave you two to talk then."

She bustled out of the room, and Robin said, "Do you remember what happened right before Elizabeth shot at you?"

"No, the last thing I remember was when I walked into the woods. We were talking, but I don't even remember what we talked about. What happened?"

Robin wasn't sure if he was relieved that Maria couldn't recall what he said. "Well, Elizabeth was mad at you, that's why she shot at you. After I got you back to your uncle's house, I went back into the woods to try to find her," he said. "All I could find was the gun. She must've known someone would come after her and fled."

Then came Maria's dreaded question, "Why was she mad at me?"

"Because I said I love you," Robin said in a quiet voice.

"You... love me?"

"Yes, I've loved from the moment I saw you! You've constantly been on my mind. I love you; do you love me?" Robin trailed off uncertainly.

"But I do! I've loved you since you helped me save the valley. You let me see the other side of you. I love that you are tough and strong, but, at the same time, you are caring and kind. I love that you are the way you are. Robin de Noir, I love you and everything about you!"

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Hey guys, sorry this is a short chapter and that it took so long to update. Something got messed up with our wifi, but it was fixed. Then I had my church youth conference, but I finally got a chance to update. This chapter is dedicated to @SorryWritings because she commented. This is the last chapter, but I will post the epilogue as soon as possible. Well, if any of you want to know, I had my first day of basketball tryouts today, and I think it went well. There are still two more days so wish me luck, okay bye now. Vote and comment please.