Leonardo had always admired Arya’s ability to see the good in others, even when he struggled to find it himself. But this—this blatant disregard for his orders, driven by her unyielding compassion—was something he couldn’t easily overlook. He was hers, and she was his, bound by a loyalty he had always believed was unshakeable. Yet, she had defied him to aid one of their worst enemies. How could someone be so inherently good? How could he reconcile his feelings when her actions constantly reminded him of the darkness within himself?

His face was stern as he approached her, the weight of his decision clear in his expression. Without a word,...