[ nier's features harden — he tries hard to not let the corners of lips falter. ]

You don't need to worry about that.

[ instead, he offers her a tired smile, clearly tinged with the slightest bit of sorrow. ]

I'll make sure that no matter what happens, you get to go home and be with the ones you love.

[ his voice softens. ]

And until you do, I'll stay with you.