Chapter 453

• Gavin had tried to control himself—he really had. But despite his efforts, he had still hurt her.
• Guilt weighed heavily in his chest as he carefully lifted Liza into his arms, carrying her to the bathroom with the utmost care. His movements were gentle, almost reverent, as he helped her clean up, ensuring her comfort with every step. Once she was washed and refreshed, he dressed her in clean clothes before applying ointment to the areas that needed it. His face burned with embarrassment as he did so, but he didn’t stop. He owed her this much.
• Last night, he had heard Liza’s soft pleas for mercy for the first time. Even though it had tugged at his heartstrings, he hadn’t been able to stop himself—he had already been too far gone, consumed by madness.