Chapter 18

"No," Eliana said, her gaze unwavering. "You're a good man, Michael. You may have taken lives, but I know in my heart that it wasn't without reason. And that's what matters most to me."

"But, Eliana," Michael said, his voice filled with anguish. "I can't bear the thought of hurting you."

"Michael," Eliana said, her voice filled with conviction. "You could never hurt me. I know that in my heart."

"I'm not sure if I can trust myself, Eliana," Michael said, his voice trembling.

"Trust me, Michael," Eliana said, her voice steady. "I know that you're a good man, and I'm not going to let you go."

"But, Eliana..." Michael said, his voice trailing off.

"Michael," Eliana said, her voice firm. "I'm not going to let you walk away from me. You mean too much to me."

Michael was silent, his heart aching with emotion.

"Please, Michael," Eliana said, her eyes pleading. "Stay with me."

Michael was silent for a moment, his heart filled with conflicting emotions. But then, as he looked into Eliana's eyes, he knew that he couldn't walk away from her.