Tristan sat by the fireplace with his violin resting across his lap. He idly plucked at the strings, killing time while waiting for Shannon.
The door opened without a knock. Shannon stepped inside, carrying a heaviness that made Tristan look up.
"You spoke with her," Tristan said quietly, though he already knew the answer.
"Yes." Shannon's voice was steady, but his jaw was tight.
Tristan straightened, heart quickening. "What did she say?"
Shannon didn't hesitate. He never did. "She admitted her guilt. And she admitted she still had feelings for you."
The violin slipped slightly in Tristan's hands. He caught it just in time, gripping it as though it might anchor him. "Still?" The word barely made it past his lips.
"Yes," Shannon said firmly. "But I told her plainly. Whatever redemption she seeks, it will not be through you. She swore she would stay away."
