Silas's expression did not change. His gaze remained cold, steady, and unyielding.
"This is not my decision to make," he replied. "Only Ivy has the right to decide her fate. If you wish to help her, then go and beg Ivy."
His voice hardened slightly.
"Otherwise, you can forget about continuing to live in that base."
The words fell like a final verdict.
Vlad lowered his head, shame and helplessness mixing in his chest. He turned again, preparing to leave, but Silas spoke once more.
"And another thing," he added. "Do not try to pressure Ivy into forgiveness. Do not create a situation where she feels forced to accept an apology."
His eyes narrowed faintly.
"Whether she forgives Raya or not… is entirely her choice."
Vlad could only nod.
Meanwhile, Raya remained silent in his arms, not daring to argue, not daring to resist.
The fear inside her had already settled into something far heavier than punishment.
Regret.
