14 After Delphine's execution , the families met to discuss territorial adjustments . " The O'Sullivans have lost too much ground ," my father said . " They can't hold what they have . " " We're not dead yet , " Cillian responded , but his voice lacked conviction . " No ," Ronan interjected . " But you're bleeding out . Better to consolidate now than lose everything later . " The negotiations were brutal . The O'Sullivans gave up their gambling operations , keeping only their core territories . It was survival , not victory . Throughout it all , Cillian kept looking at me . I never met his eyes . When the meeting ended , he approached . My security and Ronan both tensed . " One minute , " he said . " Please . Just one minute . " I nodded to Ronan . " It's fine . " When we were relatively alone , Cillian spoke quickly . " I know I destroyed us . I know there's no forgiveness . But I need you to know - the baby , our baby - I dream about them . About what we could have had . " " Stop ." " I would have chosen differently . If I could do it over " 1 " But you can't ." My voice was gentle but firm . " We make choices , Cillian . We live with consequences . Your father would have understood that . " " Do you ... are you happy ? With Fitzgerald ? " I'm building something real . Something honest . So yes . " He closed his eyes . " Good . That's ... good . " " Take care of yourself , Cillian . Your family needs you strong . " " What's left of it . " 1 touched his arm briefly . " Then build something new . Stop living in the past . " I walked away , Ronan falling into step beside me. " You okay ? " he asked quietly . " Yeah . I am . " And I meant it .