The drive back to the villa was quiet.
Alicia gently intertwined our fingers.
"Don't think about it anymore."
"It's already over."
I looked down at her hand.
"Does it still hurt?"
She smiled and shook her head before leaning against my shoulder while I continued holding Aimy.
I glanced down at our daughter, who already looked sleepy, leaning against my chest during the drive.
This...
This was exactly what I'd always wanted to protect.
And I silently promised myself—
No one would ever make them feel unsafe again.
Back at the villa, we had dinner delivered instead.
Afterward, Alicia took Aimy to her room and tucked her into bed.
While they were inside, I stepped onto the terrace.
The sea stretched endlessly before me, illuminated by the silver glow of the moon. Gentle waves rolled onto the shore below, while the cool night breeze carried the scent of salt through the air.
A cigarette rested between my fingers.
I lit it out of habit.
Not because of regret.
