The morning was bright but cold as they rode south. The countryside stretched around them still the same. Fields spread across the landscape, and the river wound through them like a silver thread. Everything felt familiar and distant simultaneously.
Alina had been quiet since they left Ravenmoor. Austin rode beside her but didn't push her to talk, understanding her.
After almost half an hour on the journey, she finally spoke.
"You know…I can handle his anger. I can handle his excuses. But…I don't think I can handle him crying," Alina said suddenly, her voice faltering.
Austin didn't say anything. Instead, waited for her to continue.
"When I was little, he used to cry whenever mother sang certain songs," Alina said, a sad smile touching her lips. "He always looked helpless when he cried. And…and everytime I saw him crying…I wanted to protect him."
"If he cries, you'll remember the father you loved," Austin said.
Alina nodded.
