Victor let out a deep sigh, like a heavy load was finally lifting from his chest. The tension in his shoulders eased slightly as he sat back, his eyes resting on Elena.
"You have no idea how much hearing that means to me," he said quietly. "It's like... all the weight I've been carrying since I gave up that position is starting to lift. For the first time, I feel like I can breathe again."
There was a calmness in his voice now, a small but growing spark of confidence returning to his eyes.
"Same here," Stella added gently, moving closer. "When the announcement was made... I really thought we had lost everything. I kept trying to act strong, but inside I felt broken."
She gave Elena a soft smile, her voice warmer now. "But listening to you tonight... it brought everything back. The hope, the fight, the belief that we're not done yet."
Victor nodded in agreement, a trace of a real smile forming on his lips.
"Thank you," he said simply. "For not giving up."
