Jessamyn's heart twisted painfully at the words. This wasn't about bravery or admiration. It was about lives lost and the irreversible damage caused. She took a deep breath, trying to steady herself. "Being brave isn't about wearing a costume and playing a part. It's about understanding the weight of your actions, about protecting others, not putting them in harm's way."
Cordelia sobbed quietly, her shoulders shaking. "I'm so sorry… I never thought… I didn't think about others and only thought about myself. It was my fault those girls died…"
"You were told I was sick. Why did you expect me to be here, fighting?"
"I'm sorry…"
Jessamyn wanted to hold on to her anger, but seeing Cordelia's genuine remorse, she felt a flicker of compassion. "You need to understand, Cordelia. The world isn't a play where you can pretend to be someone else without consequences."
