[ seeing her like this is a torture like no other, being held at arms length, knowing there’s so much he could do to make things better. let him fix what he’s caused, he can do it. he can right his wrongs and let her move on with her life as if he’s never touched it. but the energy flickers around them—even he can feel it, and she lets out a sound that twists in his chest.

he’s by her side in a second, hands reached out, stopped just short of her waist and shoulder. his brows pinch in concern. as much as he doesn’t understand how the air-tight security could be breached, he’s not willing to risk it again. ]

Listen to me. [ the gentlest, quietest touch to the back of her knuckles, steady as he presses his hand against hers, fingers wrapping around her palm to tug her attention back to him. ] We need to go. Come to the tower with me. It’s safe there. Once you’re feeling better, you can—I’ll leave you alone. [ again, like perhaps he should have this whole time. urgency sharpens his gaze as he tries to shove the clawing, sickening anguish away. it’s been so long since he saw her. he didn’t mean to. ]