"But… please forgive me. I am truly sorry."
Maelona stared at her silently, her face blank, emotions colliding violently beneath the surface.
Slowly, Kaelith stepped forward. He lowered himself beside Chad and knelt down as well, bowing his head until it touched the ground.
"I don't need your forgiveness," Kaelith said quietly, his voice worn thin.
"I… I understand it now."
He lifted his head just enough to look at Maelona, his eyes dull with exhaustion rather than defiance.
"I caused so much pain and suffering," he continued, forcing the words out. "But it had nothing to do with her. Every choice I made was mine alone." His lips curved into a weak, self-mocking smile.
"If there's anyone to blame, it's me. I am at fault here."
His shoulders sagged further as his voice dropped.
"Just like you said… I'm a coward, Maelona. Nothing more than a coward."
Maelona's gaze fell to the floor, her chest tightening painfully.
