The next morning, Arthur brought Clara to her father’s home.
When Richard saw them, his face hardened—until he noticed the faint marks visible on his daughter’s skin.
Arthur spoke before Richard could.
“You locked her away because of this,” he said gently but firmly. “But she is stronger than both of us. You thought her scars made her unworthy—but they are what make her extraordinary.”
Richard’s voice cracked.
“I only wanted to protect her from cruelty… but I see now, I became the cruel one.”
He reached out, tears glistening.
“Forgive me, my child.”
Clara stepped forward and embraced him. It was the first time in years her father’s arms held her without shame.
