“I promised the Seven I would concentrate on Elysium, on our people. I swore to eschew any and all distractions, especially ones of a physical nature. Yet here I am winging you.” He released a bitter laugh that gave me actual chills. “I don’t deserve to be an archangel, and if I weren’t so worried about Naya and her fate, I would’ve forfeited my seat. But I am terrified, Celeste. Terrified that she will be taken from me. But now I’m also terrified that you’ll be taken from me. I can’t lose her, but I also can’t lose you.” His voice, so steady and strong, broke on that last part. “I cannot
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