"Because he is family, Rael." Eon's voice was faint but insistent. "Whether he reciprocates or not, he is still my family—our family. You must… do it for me. Please… For my sake, forgive him and save Eldest Brother."
Rael's heart twisted, and he ran a hand through her hair, his thumb brushing gently over her forehead. He could see the exhaustion in her eyes, the weight of the world resting on her fragile shoulders. But he also saw the love, the unwavering trust she had in him.
"Eon…" He whispered her name as if it were the only thing that mattered in the world. He couldn't let her suffer any longer. He decided to do whatever it took to give her peace, even if it hurt him.
"I don't want to, but I'll do it," Rael said softly, his voice steady despite the turmoil inside him.
A small, grateful smile tugged at Eon's lips, though it was faint. "Thank you…" she murmured. "I knew that you would listen to me."
