She wrapped her arms around herself, trying to hold the pieces together. "I don't know how to reconcile those two things. Not wanting you destroyed but also not wanting to die."
Silas stood slowly, moving with obvious caution. When Eve didn't retreat, he took another careful step closer. "Then we work together. You continue training, getting stronger every day. I work on my control, reinforcing the barriers, learning to feel Cain before he can surface. And we trust that between your strength and my control, we'll find a way through this."
He stopped just close enough that Eve could feel his warmth but not close enough to touch. "I love you," he said quietly. "Have loved you since before I even knew what that meant. And I will do everything....everything....to make sure Cain doesn't hurt you. Even if that means staying away until you're ready. Even if that means never touching you again if that's what keeps you safe."
