The Caido Collection Agency

LOREN

Wessex was angry, which Loren supposed was fair. Although he hadn’t intended for his words to come out in such an undiplomatic fashion, they had, and he sighed, exhaustion settling deeper into his soul. He’d already apologized to her for the actions that led to his imprisonment in the pit, to her and Delah both, but he knew he needed to find a way to make amends before it was too late. Unfortunately, he was tired and not thinking clearly for reasons he really didn’t want to get into. However, the news about what Roana wanted to do caught him off guard. ”She wants to do what?” A growl started in his chest that surprised even him. ”No, she failed to mention that.” Unless timelines make that statement untrue. If it was indeed the case, well, the ex-captain needed to be stopped.

Still, it wasn’t his concern right now. First, he needed to find some way to make things right with Wessex. ”I’m sorry. I...clearly have lapses in judgment, but that’s no excuse. So. I apologize. I was always planning to come to you directly rather than listen to baseless rumors, and as soon as possible, but I could have and should have chosen a more opportune time. Thank you for your honesty.” Again, he bowed his head, awaiting whatever punishment she saw fit to mete out.

The queen had admitted it, which weirdly enough, made Loren more inclined to trust her. After all, he of all people knew the past should be left in the past, and that people could change. Or at least, a small secret part of him had to believe that, else he was doomed to a lonely and cold existence. And even in his darkest moments, he didn’t want that, not really.

Of course, he'd still be watching Wessex very closely for any sign of a relapse. And if she showed it, he wouldn't hesitate to stop her too, just as he wouldn't hesitate to prevent Roana from carrying out a massacre.

But don’t be weary if it’s broken

Families are like that—

they’re split up and always torn.