But deep down, she knew, even if she hadn't come to meet her true father, it wouldn't have changed anything. Azrael had known who she was from the very beginning. So maybe other people knew it as well.
Rail reached for her hand, his hand brushed hers, his touch gentle, seeking to comfort. But Gloria stepped back, shaking her head as she raised a hand to stop him. No. He needed to stay away. Stay safe. The further he was from her, the better.
Her fingers twitched, aching with the urge to reach out, to take Rail's hand, to let herself lean on him just this once. The longing was almost unbearable. But she resisted. She had to. If she gave in now, she might fall too far, too fast, and she couldn't afford that.
Rail's brow furrowed, a flicker of hurt passing through his eyes. His heart clenched when she pulled away, denying the comfort he offered so freely. Still, he said nothing, sensing that words would only deepen the rift.
