Chapter 13: Forgiveness
Arthur walked over and sat down beside her on the sofa. The silence stretched, heavy and poignant. He thought about the Volkovs, about the cycles of power, fear, and violence that dictated the world he moved through. He thought about Leo, and the chain reaction of kindness that had saved his life tonight.
Slowly, Arthur reached out and placed his hand over hers.
Elena flinched, looking up at him in disbelief.
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""You aren't a monster, Elena,"" Arthur said softly, his voice thick with emotion. ""You were a victim. You made an impossible choice to save the only family you have. I am just deeply sorry you felt you had to carry that burden alone.""
Elena stared at him, the depth of his grace breaking the last of her defenses. She fell into his arms, weeping into his chest. Arthur held her tightly, resting his chin on her hair, breathing in the scent of her. The betrayal was forgiven. The wound would heal.
