Book 2: Chapter 41

He suspected something had triggered her, but hearing what it was now. He could only feel sorry for her, that he had put her through that.

Martina nodded, unable to speak for a moment. Her mind trailed back to the warehouse when Ares had shot that man in front of her. "Yes," she whispered. "It brought back all those memories. The fear, the helplessness... it all came rushing back."

Ares pulled her into a tight embrace, his voice filled with regret. "I’m so sorry, Sweetheart. I didn't know. If I had, I never would have..."

"It’s okay," Martina interrupted, her voice muffled against his chest. "You didn't know. And I understand why you did it. It’s just... hard for me."

Ares held her close, his heart aching for the pain she had endured. "I promise I’ll never put you through that again," he vowed. "You’ve been through enough. You deserve peace."

Martina pulled back slightly, looking up at him with gratitude in her eyes. "Thank you," she said softly. "It me