Baron was trying to calm her, trying to be a wall she could lean on.

"You're safe now," he whispered.

"But...." She began but stopped herself and shook her head.

"What?" Baron asked but she shook her head.

She buried her face deeper in his bosom.

"Don't leave me, Baron... please don't leave me..."

She broke again, falling into his chest as he held her and kissed her forehead like she was the only thing that made sense anymore.

Across every ...