“You once belonged to someone.” It was a nice concept. Chéri couldn’t know it, but the Italian word for it included something that suggested “keeping” and “sharing” at the same time. If Chéri had known, they probably would have felt that applied to Sonia really well.

Chéri nodded. She had obviously understood. As for the rest, their eyes wondered where her scar was “You are not fragile.” They said, with absolute conviction.