Days had passed. Bastien never left Kate’s side. Even Ella and Moira had flown in from Milan to be with them. Arthur had been discharged, and the first thing he did was visit Kate, apologizing for not being able to protect her—but everyone knew there was nothing he could’ve done during the attack. Ara was also discharged and being cared for relentlessly by Lucca.

Bastien stayed with Kate, carefully feeding her. She was recovering quickly. Her diet had already changed, and her leg had healed well. Bastien watched as they cleaned her wound—seven stitches across her thigh. Kate looked at him.

— It’s going to be an awful scar.

— I don’t care, he said. That scar means you're still with me. It shows how hard the doctors fought to keep you alive. That scar, for me, will always be a reminder that I almost lost you... but I didn’t.

Kate smiled.

— You’re wonderful, Bastien.

— Now eat. Open your mouth.

Bastien continued feeding her as she grew stronger. Finally, she was cleared for discharge. Th