Em, you have a soul. How can you be so sure of that, Hayden? How many people die and come back? No one dies and comes back. You did because of your sister, and you have a gift. Maybe that played a role in your coming back, but you have a soul. You aren't evil. There's nothing you can say that will make me think that. I looked up and our gazes locked. And there's nothing you can say to make me feel differently. He lowered his eyes. Thick lashes fanned his cheeks. I know you do, because I wouldn't want to… to kiss you if you didn't have a soul. I froze. You… you want to kiss me?
In this exchange, Hayden reassures Em of her inherent goodness, insisting that she possesses a soul. He understands her doubts, especially considering her unique circumstances of coming back to life, but he is adamant that this does not define her as evil. His unwavering belief in her character is evident when their eyes meet, creating a moment of deep connection and trust.
The conversation takes a turn when Hayden reveals his feelings, stating he wouldn’t want to kiss her if he believed she lacked a soul. This admission surprises Em, highlighting the complexity of their relationship and her own self-perception. It emphasizes that the bond they share is rooted in genuine affection and understanding, further deepening the narrative's emotional stakes.
