“You made the right choice,” I said.
“Right before his vessel died, you know what he said to me?” your eyes begged me to understand.
“Tell me, my love.”
“He said that he forgave me.”
Thank the gods.I pulled you toward me and kissed your sweaty crown. “Of course, he forgives you.”
“I’m trying. Please know that.”
“You are incredibly strong to endure what you did and figure out a way to escape Azrael. You outsmarted the Angel of Death. I’m so proud of you for having the courage to persevere. And I’m so thankful you’re here with me now.”
You nodded, but your expression was still weary and withdrawn.
“I have to lead this revolution, Henri. And I need you by my side no matter what.”
Was there ever any doubt in your mind?
I climbed off the bed, took one of your hands, and knelt on the floor beside you, just as I had when you were a child, when you’d dubbed me your number one knight. “Do you remember this?”
You nodded as a small smile graced your lips. Your eyes were wistful.
“I meant what I said. My loyalty to you is eternal. And it’s not only my love for you or a sense of duty, it’s because I believe you are capable. The road before us is treacherous, but I will follow you anywhere, Vincent.”
“To hell and back?” you asked as if testing my commitment.
“Yes,” I swore. “To hell and back.”
At the time, I’d thought it was only hypothetical.
