CIAN
There was no defiance in her tone. No need for it even.
For Madeline, this was her truth.
Valentine's jaw tightened, something darker flickering behind his eyes, but he said nothing more, especially when we made eye contact.
Madeline held her gaze for a second longer before she turned away from him entirely as she took a few steps back.
The space between us shifted again. The air became tense, but Valentine immediately broke the silence.
"Thank you," he said quietly. "For keeping your word."
I looked at him for a long moment.
"I wish I could say it makes me happy that I am letting you go. After all, the accusations that were against you are true. But we did make a deal, and you got me, my uncle, back. So enjoy your clean slate. Go and sin no more."
Valentine's lips curved into a faint smile.
"I am a changed man."
Madeline let out a sharp laugh.
It was bitter and humorless.
"A lie from the pit of hell," she said.
Valentine turned to look at her. His smile faded.
