"Sorry for leaving you. I'm an idiot,"
Arlo implored, their bodies entwined in an emotional embrace, tears cascading down their faces amidst a sea of blossoms.
"Well yeah, you are an idiot,"
Inara retorted playfully. Arlo cupped Inara's face in his hands, his voice trembling as he asked, "What happened to you, Inara?"
He swallowed hard before adding, "What happened to your eyes?"
Arlo's gaze penetrated her eyes. He found no physical harm, yet Inara was blind. His mind raced, searching for a way to restore her sight.
Inara, sensing his scrutiny, gently removed Arlo's hand from her face and turned away. She knew he was trying to decipher her condition.
"Arlo, I know you are trying to find a way to cure my eyes. Please, don't," Inara implored, her voice barely above a whisper. "It's my penance for my deeds."
