Lucian's POV
I brought my hand up, my fingers trembling as I slowly caressed the smooth line of her cheek. The warmth of her skin under my palm was the only thing keeping me grounded.
"Alina, I..." My voice broke, thick with the weight suffocating my chest. "I am so sorry. I... I didn't mean for any of it to happen. I never meant to break your trust. Emily, she..."
"It's okay, Lucian."
The words were soft, cutting through my frantic stuttering. I froze, staring down at her as hot tears finally welled in my eyes, blurring her beautiful face.
"I know you didn't do anything," she whispered, her gaze steady and unyielding. "I know you would never break my trust. I know exactly how much you love me, Lucian. You don't need to be scared."
I stared at her in absolute disbelief, my heart leaping into my throat. The breath hitched in my chest. "You... you forgive me?"
"Yes."
