“Don’t apologize,” he reminded gently, “it’s alright. Everything will be alright.”

How many times had he told her that, while silently hoping that against all odds it would be true? How many times had he wished that he could be the one being held and promised that things would be fine, and that he'd be able to convince himself of it?

Malachi nodded once, “that will be perfect, Nettie. I know that I will.”

That much, at least, was true. His smile seemed to brighten as she lifted her head, and he raised a hand to cup her cheek.

“I promise, you’re never going to lose me. And I’m sorry for making you cry. Are you okay?”