Leave, as in dead.
William's heart sank at the possibility. The thought of Jerrick losing Jessamyn, of being left alone to raise their child, was almost too much to bear. He understood now why he hesitated, why he was so deeply troubled.
"You'll be happy with her for a long time, brother," William said, patting Jerrick's shoulder. "Believe in it."
"I see no distress on her face whenever she talks about our son. Just pure bliss… So, I don't think she'll leave me. But I can't shake off this dread at times. I cannot live without her, William…" Jerrick's voice wavered, revealing the depth of his fear.
William's expression softened. "It's natural to fear losing someone you love so deeply. But Jessamyn is strong, and so are you. Together, you can overcome anything."
Jerrick nodded, though the heaviness in his heart remained. "I just want to protect her, to keep her safe and happy."