W-what... Are You Saying?

Sophie didn't give herself time to think, she immediately jumped to hug him. She missed him so, so badly. Leland was standing still like a statue when Sophie held him tightly. Her heart was filled with overwhelming emotion. She was both very happy and relieved. Her tears immediately wet his shirt.

"Leland! You're finally home. I missed you so much... What took you so long? I was so worried." Sophie cried on Leland's chest and told him about the state of their children. Every word she said felt like a stab in Leland's still-bleeding heart.

He felt numb, so helpless, and inadequate. Sophie had to go through it all alone, and here he was, coming to see her only to inflict more pain on her. It took all his sanity not to break down and cry and hug her back

"...the healers have given up and said they can't do anything anymore. I was so scared. I'm relieved that you're here now."