Giving Space

"I'm so sorry, Elena," he murmured, holding her tight as her body trembled against his. "I regret not coming into your life earlier. I will never touch you without your consent, okay?" He leaned back slightly, searching her gaze for reassurance.

Elena was taken aback by his words, a mix of surprise and relief flooding through her. Was he not disgusted by her? The insecurities that plagued her about this part of her life surged to the forefront of her mind. She had always feared that sharing such a traumatic experience would drive people away, but here was Magnar, looking at her with nothing but compassion and concern.

"Do you really mean that?" she asked, her voice trembling as she sought confirmation. The warmth of his embrace was comforting, yet the weight of her past lingered heavily on her shoulders.