Reunion

She kept her gaze on the floor, trying to avoid his piercing eyes. Shame and guilt weighed heavily on her heart.

Anastasia had almost died. Despite Arya's promise to always protect him, despite her best efforts, she had failed. Atticus had been the one to protect her instead, and the guilt gnawed at her.

But before she could say another word, she felt Atticus's arms wrap around her, pulling her into a gentle hug. Her eyes widened in shock.

"I missed you, Arya," Atticus said softly.

For a moment, Arya didn't know how to react. She hesitated, her voice shaky as she began to protest,

"B-but I wasn't able to—"

"Don't blame yourself," Atticus interrupted, his voice firm but gentle. "You did your best. It's not anyone's fault except the people responsible."

'Such anger,' Arya shivered slightly. The air had become noticeably colder as Atticus spoke, his anger palpable in the room.