Chapter 9

Just like 20 years ago, when Bruno—who had just arrived in the country—and I were in the cathedral. He had placed my father's badge in my hand and swore that he'd always protect us. Those vows from our youth had been so sincere, and his eyes had been filled with hope for this land. Yet the man who later pushed my father into the abyss had also been him. Suddenly, a warmth pressed up against me, and a familiar scent of cologne enveloped me. Bruno hugged me tightly as if he wanted to fuse us together—as if I'd disappear forever the moment he loosened his grip. His voice, filled with despair, broke as he said, "Amy, isn't this where everything started for us? Give me another chance. I'll spend the rest of my life making it up to you. I'll give you whatever you want, as long as you let me stay by your side…" Scalding tears dripped onto the back of my cold hand, the pain searing through me. With a quiet sigh and a tone as cold as ice, I said, "Bruno, I only want you to disappear from