Drystan reached out and placed a hand on Sadiki's shoulder, his grip firm but gentle. "Because I love you," he said simply. "And I'll never make the mistake of walking away from you again."
Sadiki closed his eyes, his head bowing as fresh tears spilled down his cheeks. For the first time since Drystan had entered the cell, his rigid frame seemed to relax, though only slightly.
"Thank you," he whispered, the words barely audible.
Drystan nodded, determination blazing in his eyes. "We'll get through this, Sadiki. I will get you out of here. I promise you that."
As the hours passed in the dimly lit dungeon, Drystan stayed beside Sadiki, refusing to leave even as silence stretched between them. He leaned his back against the cold stone wall, his thoughts racing with how to follow through on his promise. Sadiki, still curled against the opposite side, seemed to have momentarily drifted into an uneasy sleep.
