[What else is there to say? Kel told her. She hates that it wasn’t Sunny’s choice; is grateful, because it’s not a shock, even as that horrible ache wells up between them.

[Sunny’s not a monster. Hell, he could have done it on purpose; he’s not a monster. The how, the why; it almost doesn’t matter, because he’s carried this for four years, rotting alone, and now it’s over.

[He’s trusted Aubrey with the truth. It’s not over at all.

[Mari would forgive him, too.]

I know, Sunny… [Soft, almost pleading. Aubrey’s own eyes well; she notices, and lets them. Sunny’s still here.] I know....

[She coaxes his hand towards her, her own beating, broken heart. Squeeze, just the faintest release, squeeze again....]