She cradles his hand as gently as possible, presses the most delicate kisses to his wrist where the flesh isn't as red and tender.

"I know, my love. Edgar is safe. You're safe. That's all that matters."

Her voice is more rough than usual, her throat raw. Beneath the words, a tumble of emotions: fear, desperation, joy, relief, and the deep pulse of love, if not stronger than definitely louder than before. So loud, he can almost hear words.

"I'm sorry."