The sudden turn of events left Dunn at a loss. He opened his mouth, but it took him a long while to stammer out a few words:
"Daly... No... I wasn't..."
As a former Nighthawks team captain, he could face death calmly. Yet at this moment, he was utterly flustered.
Miss Daly's gaze sharpened. Her little test had confirmed that the man before her was her Dunn, not a "monster" resurrected by the Fool!
Before Dunn could finish, she lunged forward and pinned him against the entryway wall. She shut the door behind her, seized his clothes with both hands, and looked straight into his eyes. In a tone that brooked no argument, she said:
"Change your face back. I like the way you really look!"
Dunn had meant to explain, but when he saw the joy and hurt mingled in Daly's eyes, he could say nothing more. With a long sigh, he dispelled the Clown Mask's effect.
When that familiar face appeared before her, Daly felt as though the "light" that had once led her out of darkness had shone into her heart again. For the first time in so long, warmth filled it.
I missed my chance last time... But thanks to the Goddess and Mr. Fool, the only "light" in my heart has been returned to me...
So this time, I won't let that happen. I'm going to reach out and touch that light!
Endless courage welled up in Daly's heart, and the corners of her mouth slowly lifted.
The tenderness, sweetness, and fierce resolve in her expression left Dunn transfixed. Then her hands cupped his cheeks. She rose onto her toes, and her lips drew closer and closer to his...
Their dance steps turned light and quick. Their breathing grew heavier, and clothes fell to the