That was a cue he could take just fine. He crossed the library in a few long strides and wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close in the deep embrace she'd come to know so well.

He was shaking. Very slightly, but more than enough for Elisa to feel. All he'd had to remember for months was the sight of her, pale and bandaged in a hospital bed, turning away from him, asking the question - just what have you been telling everyone about us?

And then she'd disappeared. Like every good thing that he'd had before the end of the Earth he know. How long before she disappeared again?

"I'm sorry. I wasn't there to protect you. I am so sorry, Elisa."