He takes her hands in his and it’s everything not to completely crumble against him. She can’t afford it, and she’s not sure he could handle it right now. Instead, she just gently squeezes his fingers back— it’s enough just that he’s here.

Those could so easily be fighting words in any other context, but right now they are a balm against rising fear and uncertainty in whatever’s coming next. Because if there is one truth that will prevail over all others, it’s that Kaz Brekker will protect what he sees as his.

She trails after him as soon as he starts moving, something in her panicking just a little at the idea of being left, despite the conversation at hand— logic isn’t her friend right now.