Boris fell forward.
Daniel got him.
His body was cold.
Too cold.
“Dad!” he shouted. “Dad, do you hear me?”
Nothing.
Stoyan knelt beside them.
His eyes were full of tears.
"I'm sorry," he whispered.
Daniel didn't hear it.
He didn't want to hear it.
Then Boris took a breath.
One.
Heavy.
Painful.
His eyes opened.
They were confused.
Empty.
Then he looked at Daniel.
And something in his face changed.
"Danny?" he whispered.
Daniel cried.
"Yes. I am.
Boris reached out.
You touched his face.
You are... so big.
"Dad.
"Where's your mother?"
That was it.
Just that question.
But it was enough.
His memories were back.
The exit collapsed.
Stoyan stayed behind.
Daniel and Boris walked to the shaft, and his grandfather stood by the pool, which was already overflowing with black water.
"Come with us!" cried Daniel.
Stoyan shook his head.
Someone has to hold the door.
"No!"
Danny.
I'm not leaving you!
Stoyan smiled.
For the first time since he had seen him alive underground, he looked calm.
I left your father. I'm not leaving you either.
Boris looked at Stoyan.
The two men looked at each other for a long time.
Ten years lack.
Secrets.
Guilt.
Fear.
Finally, Boris said:
"Dad...
Stoyan closed his eyes.
"I'm sorry, son.
Boris nodded.
He didn’t say “I forgive.”
