[ ... ]

I don't want to lose them. [ he admits, after a moment - a vulnerability to his voice, even here. ] If I'd had my choice... we both would've walked away from it, with her healed of her infection.

I know that's not how the world really works. [ taair adds, and shakes his head, hand curling. ] But I wish that it was. Perhaps she was right - that I am a coward.