Reassurance

Remo's arms tightened around her, and for a moment, the silence hung heavy between them. He could feel her trembling, her fear palpable, almost choking. Her vulnerability tore at him, but it also fed the gnawing guilt that had taken root deep inside him. How could he comfort her when he was the very source of her unease? When his doubts and questions were driving her to the brink?

He had to say something, anything to ease her mind. But the truth was too heavy, too dangerous. "Abby," he began, struggling to find the right words, "you mean everything to me. I'm not going anywhere. I'm right here with you."