Healing Without Force

King Valtor POV

“I brought these for you,” I said softly, “to apologize… and to wish you a full recovery. I want you healed, Ember. Completely healed. I want the day to come when my presence no longer traumatizes you.”

As I spoke, I walked closer and gently took her hand, placing the bouquet into it and folding her fingers around the flowers so she wouldn’t drop them. I placed the bag filled with carefully selected feminine items on the table beside her, then sat down close enough for her to feel my presence.

“There are many things I want to tell you,” I continued quietly. “But...