Chapter 51. I Release You from My Heart

Athena

“Ath…” The pain in Orion’s voice hit me like a physical blow.

I could see my words were hurting him, but I couldn’t take them back. They were true, even if they stung. I couldn’t face those sweet, innocent children while I was barely holding myself together.

I couldn’t be the aunt they looked up to when I was still jumping at shadows and trembling from memories that felt too fresh.

“Wait, just let me explain how I feel, please,” I said quickly, catching sight of Tristan settling onto his motorcycle. He wasn’t leaving, just giving us space to talk while making it clear he planned to be part of whatever came next.

My voice cracked as I spoke, but I pushed through anyway. “I want your kids to see me the way I see you—strong, brave, someone they can always count on. I know it might sound impossible right now, but I have to try. I want them to look up to me as their protector, not as someone who constantly needs protecting. I want to