Gabriel's Hope

"She brought me back for a reason," Wynn said. "I'd like to think there's greater meaning to both of us being reincarnated."

"It's not lost on me that you repay her for that favor by killing her," Fate said. "Slowly, while you hold her hand and lower her into eternal rest. Beautiful, Wynn. I've been watching the events unfold with no small amount of entertainment."

"It was a kinder revenge than she deserved," he replied. "I know you agree with me."

"Very much so, especially when you consider she stole your heart not once but twice."

"She has a way about her."

"She will never be yours."

Wynn's breath caught at the stark pronouncement from the enigmatic deity. His body was tense, his memories flowing unabated. He hadn't expected anything different when he met the reincarnated Deidre a few years ago and started down this path. When his mind changed from vengeance to compassion, he wasn't certain. Perhaps the day he realized what he'd done was irreparable, and he was going to lose her twice.

Fate knew what Wynn intended to do, had he left his office to find Deidre before she left the hospital. The deity dragged Wynn here to warn him against altering his plan for revenge. Wynn lost this round.

"I understand," he managed. "I will not interfere in that regard. Anything else?"

"No."

Wynn nodded once. He took a step and was back in the hallway. Fate dropped him in front of the door to Deidre's exam room, a twisting of the knife in his heart. With a deep breath, Wynn turned away and retreated to his office.

No apologies. No regrets.