Elena's POV.

　　I embraced him tightly, and he reciprocated, our silence speaking volumes. I was stunned that he had been struggling silently, while I had been angry with him.

　　After a moment, he released me, and I asked, "Are you okay?"

　　He smiled softly, nodding, "Yes." I smiled back, and he apologized, "Sorry for burdening you with my issues."

　　I shook my head, reassuring him, "You don't have to apologize."

　　He nodded, sat down, ...