The only regret

Following the brief meeting, everyone went their own way, leaving Erna and Jonathan alone in their room.

Jonathan closed the door and turned to face his wife, who was delightful after meeting her people. He understood how difficult it was for Erna to avoid them, but his hands were constrained, and he wanted to protect her at all costs.

When he dared to take her hand, he understood what he was getting himself into. But he never regretted it since his love for her outweighed his responsibilities as a Miller.

He approached Erna slowly and sat next to her on the bed. "You are beautiful." His eyes never left her, but she did detect the glint of regret in them and slowly reached out to caress his face.

"And I'm sorry for putting you through this separation," he said, his remorse overwhelming him till his eyes welled up with tears.