Chapter 41

HEPHASTEUS’ POV

The ache within me grows with each passing day, a constant reminder of the void left by her absence. I miss her so badly it physically hurts, like a gnawing emptiness that cannot be satiated. Every moment feels like an eternity without Natasha by my side.

Her smile, her laugh, her gentle touch – everything haunts me now. Memories we shared, conversations we had, and secret touches we shared all linger, taunting me with what might never be again.

But despite this overwhelming longing, I know it's necessary to keep my distance. Our separation is a painful necessity, a sacrifice made for the greater good. Talking to her would only lead to more problems for her and I didn’t want that. She had so much on her plate.

So I'd hold onto the memories for now, cherishing them while acknowledging the possibility of rekindling what we had. The weight of this realization crushes me at times, leaving me breathless and yearning for a reprieve that ne