Won't Let Go

But just when she felt a faint spark of hope trying to take root, she saw the obsessive fire rekindle behind his eyes. The brief falter was swiftly submerged beneath an avalanche of burning determination.

"No." 

The single word cut through the tension like a scorching blade as he shook his head adamantly. "I refuse to accept this is the end." 

His wife felt her heart plummet at the ominous undercurrent in his tone. Despairingly, she recognized that monolithic look - the obstinate set of his Features that signaled he was utterly immovable.

"The Princess has started a new life, it's clear to see that now," he stated in a low rumble. "But that doesn't mean she doesn't still carry the regrets and doubts of her past."