Istredd usually hopes for the best on this front. He wants to imagine a version of a happy ending for them where they stay in this world, together and with their friends, for centuries. Maybe a part of him is fixated on the new gods being Summoned because it means they've been here for so long. Obviously, they don't want to become them precisely, but it's still the potential to stay here.

And nothing will ever be a 'happy ending' with all the nonsense and turmoil going on, but it'll be close, for them.

Istredd turns in Lucifer's arms but doesn't remove them from around him, in fact he puts a hand there to make certain he stays that close. He needs physical reassurance. It does put them pretty much nose to nose which he doesn't mind either, it's not new for them. Once secured, his hand caresses Lucifer's cheek.

"I don't want to either. But this happened because of my selfishness." The unhealthy aspect of their bond is solely his problem. Yes, Lucifer wanted it and allowed it, he may have even pushed it if Istredd did make the bond efficiently. They keep wanting to be closer.

He doesn't want to do anything that puts walls between them. It's more concern and guilt for Lucifer driving him.

"I just ... don't want my love for you to do more damage than good."