"You don't have to be. This is how things are."

He presses forwards, stealing one long, careful, adamently gentle kiss. He's strong, strong, and loving, and not going to be pinned nor taken. All that's happening tonight is the gentlest of kisses.

"I haven't told you, for you, in weeks, how much I love you, you realize? I do. Shift back on the bed, let me take care of you, lovely thing. Life got away with you for an instant but we are safe and together."