```
But there are no "ifs" or "perhaps" in this world, only what has happened before.
Perhaps he should have treated her a little better, just a little bit… then maybe, he wouldn't be feeling so terrible now.
Was it just self-reproach? He placed his hand on his chest, his heart slowly beating through a layer of flesh and blood; that momentary pain almost didn't seem real.
Was it just self-reproach?
There were no other possibilities…
He let out a weary sigh, dismissing the other thoughts that had begun to surface in his mind.
********************************
Evan Willow carefully applied the ointment to Amanda Smith's wound.
Then he found some bandages and meticulously wrapped her wrist, repeatedly instructing her not to get it wet and to wait at least three days before removing it.
Amanda obediently agreed to all his instructions.
