Looking intently into his eyes, Bertha whispered, "I am sorry, Zerith... for every lie, for every betrayal and for every pain and disappointment I have caused you! I truly am!
I don't have an explanation for my actions except for the fact that I did everything only for Lady Theodora and her happiness.
And her happiness lies with the man she had given herself to.
But trust me, every time I had to lie to you, it broke my heart. My guilt ate me. I... I never mean to hurt you, Zerith. I can't! Never!" She spoke every word with such conviction and sincerity that Zerith believed everything she said.
And that was the truth!
For the first time in so many months, Bertha was telling him the truth and it provided a sense of relief. But that happiness was only momentary, and she knew it.
