It is a part of my history that I have tried to atone for and leave behind.

( if he sounds defensive, it's because he is. he's immediately on his guard, preparing himself for something similar to what his mother had done to him.

elena is not her but he can't help himself. )

No, it doesn't hurt to look at you, Elena. What happened to Tatia was a long, long time ago. I've tried to make as much peace with things as possible. It doesn't hurt to look at you.