In Maple Leaf Village, ever since that bloody conflict, rumors hung over the entire village like dark clouds, heavy and oppressive.
Alice was engulfed in sorrow over Leon's serious injuries, while Oliver silently vowed to stay by her side and help her through this crisis.
One morning, before the first rays of sunlight fully illuminated the village, Oliver rose early. After a quick wash, he made his way to Alice's home.
In this difficult time, Alice needed companionship and support. He gently knocked on her door and felt a pang in his heart at the sight of her weary face.
"Alice, I'm here. Let's take a walk in the forest today; it might lift your spirits," Oliver said softly, his eyes filled with concern.
Alice hesitated for a moment but eventually nodded. She couldn’t remain trapped in her sadness forever; perhaps Oliver’s presence could help her momentarily forget her pain.
The two walked side by side along the path leading to the forest. Oliver occasionally glanced at Alice's expression, trying to find topics to cheer her up.
"Do you remember the wildflowers we found last time we were in the forest? They might be blooming even more beautifully this season," Oliver said with a smile.
Alice managed a faint smile in response, softly acknowledging his words.
In the forest, Oliver acted like a guardian, constantly alert to their surroundings, fearful of any danger approaching Alice.
When they reached a stream, Oliver paused and said, "Alice, let's rest here for a bit." He helped her sit on a stone by the water's edge and took out a handkerchief from his pocket, gently wiping away the tears on her face.
"Thank you, Oliver," Alice whispered, tears glistening in her eyes.
"If it weren't for you, I don't know what I would do."
"Don't say that, Alice. I promised you that I would always protect you. No matter what happens, I will never leave," Oliver said firmly, holding Alice's hand and conveying warmth and strength.
However, the pressure from the outside world did not lessen. The rumors in the village grew increasingly harsh, with some people even pointing fingers at Alice, blaming her for the conflict.
Upon hearing these rumors, Oliver felt a surge of anger, but he knew he couldn't act impulsively; his priority was to protect Alice.
One day, as Oliver and Alice returned from the forest, a group of villagers surrounded them.
An elder at the forefront frowned and said, "Oliver, Alice, you need to give everyone an explanation. This conflict has disrupted the peace of our village."
Oliver stepped forward, positioning himself in front of Alice. "Everyone, listen to me. This situation is a mistake made by Leon in a moment of confusion; it has nothing to do with Alice. We will take responsibility for it. Once Leon wakes up, everything will be clarified."
"But right now, the village is in turmoil. How can we feel safe?" another villager shouted.
"I understand everyone's concerns, but please trust us. Alice is innocent; she has always contributed to our village. We cannot harm a kind person based on unfounded rumors," Oliver said earnestly, his eyes reflecting determination.
Thanks to Oliver's efforts, the villagers' emotions gradually calmed down. But he knew that it would take time to completely eliminate the impact of this turmoil.
Back home, Alice sat wearily in a chair, tears streaming down her face once more. "Oliver, I'm so tired. Why does everyone treat me like this?"
Oliver walked over to her, knelt down gently, and embraced her.
“Alice, don’t be sad. This isn’t your fault; it’s those rumors causing trouble. I will stay by your side until everything gets better.”
During these difficult days, Oliver kept his promise unwaveringly.
He demonstrated his love and protection for Alice through his actions.
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