He scrubbed his face roughly, He knew he had misunderstood. And He knew he had hurt Valerie in a way that was unforgivable.
But what weighed on his chest the most was a bitter realization that had only just dawned on him, Valerie had forgiven him… without truly coming back.
And that was far more frightening than anger.
Inside the study, filled with the scent of old wood and fresh ink, the atmosphere felt far heavier than usual.
The afternoon light streamed through the tall windows, casting long shadows across the marble floor. Kaiser stood near Demian's desk, his arms crossed over his chest. His expression was calm, yet unmistakably edged with concern.
"Did something happen between you and Valerie?" he finally asked, his voice low and careful like someone who knew he was stepping onto dangerous ground.
Demian did not answer at once. He stood with his back to Kaiser, staring out the window, as though the garden beyond deserved his attention more than the question.
