Lucien's POV

I pulled her up from the chair and into my arms. The solid feel of her body against mine broke me. I buried my face in her hair, inhaling the scent that was still somehow her despite the prison's sterile air.

"I'm sorry," I whispered against her temple. "I'm so sorry I wasn't here. I'm sorry I left you alone. I'm sorry I didn't understand."

Her hands fisted in my suit, and I felt her tremble.

"I was angry. I was hurt that you chose this over letting me protect you whereas I ...