---- here." "Thank you," I said sincerely. "But I don't want to cause you any trouble." "No trouble at all," she smiled. 'Kaelen saved my life. I owe him. And..." she looked at Orion, "this little one needs a safe place to grow." As night fell, I stood by the window, looking back in the direction I'd come. The person I'd left behind was there, making a sacrifice for us. "Will Kaelen be okay?" I whispered to Rhea. She was silent for a moment, then answered honestly, ''I don't know. But if anyone can fight an enemy like that and survive, it's him." "He made a mistake, a terrible mistake," I said softly. "But he shouldn't have to pay for it with his life." "Love and forgiveness are different," Rhea said wisely. "You can forgive him without having to ---- love him again. But not forgiving... that will only hurt yourself." I lowered my eyes, looking at the sleeping Orion. His little face was so peaceful, completely unaware of the storm raging outside. "Whatever Kaelen's fate," I said softly, "I'll make sure Orion knows his father ultimately chose the right path. Even if that path led to sacrifice."