Chapter 101

• Valerie's eyes welled up with tears as she listened to Dominic's past. She couldn't imagine the pain and betrayal he had endured. John, who had been standing quietly by, finally spoke up.
• "People aren't born heartless; they become that way for a reason," he said, his voice low and contemplative. He glanced away, his eyes clouding over. "Dominic is really sorry for what he did. He regrets it every day."
• Valerie's gaze snapped back to John, her eyes searching for answers. John continued, his voice filled with a deep understanding.