Heart More Troubled Than Ever

Pure devastation etched across Valerie's face as he digested her confession, something he never fathomed Islinda would subject him to, not in a million years. Confusion and dizziness gripped him as he shook his head, unable to comprehend the words she had just uttered. When his gaze met Islinda's, a red haze clouded his eyes, reflecting nothing but anger and the profound sting of betrayal.

Valerie's expression radiated a lethal intent as if he harbored thoughts of retribution for her perceived betrayal. However, when he finally spoke, the words that escaped his lips were a vehement denial, challenging Islinda with, "No, you're lying to me, Islinda. I know you, and you're trying to push me away. Did Aldric put you up to this? Did he ask you to push you away?" 

Fresh tears stung Islinda's eyes, she did not want to hurt him this way but it was inevitable. "No," She cried, "He doesn't know of it, it's just me confessing what I did."