"I did not want you to take part in the mission."
Adela felt Richard's gentle touch as his fingers weaved through her hair, soothing her. They lay in each other's arms, their bodies entwined, but Richard's words brought a tinge of sadness to Adela's heart. She could understand Richard's concern. He might have thought Adela could not tolerate the hard journey. She asked, "Are you thinking I will not be able to do a long journey?"
"Adela," Richard began, his voice filled with a mix of concern and determination. "I cannot bear the thought of you facing the dangers that await us on this mission. The monsters we may encounter, the treacherous paths we must tread... it is too much for me to bear the thought of you in harm's way."