AMELIA

"Hi," Damian said tentatively as he walked into the living room.

"Hello," I said, hurrying and making space for him on the couch.

He chose the couch farthest from me, and I fought the brief flare of annoyance. I understood him better now. He had endured my hug last night, but it would take him much more than twelve hours, maybe even a lifetime, to heal from his mental and emotional scars.

"How do you feel?" he asked quietly as his eyes roved over my face and body.

...