After Zale stormed out, Stephen remained in the room, his eyes drifting toward Shilister. The bruises and blood on Shilister's face were nothing compared to the hollowness that had taken over his expression.
Stephen knew Shilister was a villain in everyone's story, and even in his own. He knew there was no redemption for the cruelty Shilister had inflicted over the years. But seeing him like this—so utterly broken—hurt more than Stephen could bear.
Shilister remained slumped against the wall, his head hanging low. Stephen stepped forward cautiously, his throat tight with emotions he couldn't quite place. "Why didn't you stop him?" Stephen's voice was soft, but there was an edge of confusion. "Why did you just let Zale beat you like that?"
"Why are you still here?' Shilister whispered, staring down at his trembling hands.