He saw her freeze and it brought a sad edge to his smile.

Something like a happy ending was something he could never have. There was no happily ever after for a person like him. It had been impossible since the day his Commander put a bullet through his head. That was why he wanted to give the espers under his protection a different future. He wanted them to be able to walk in the light and smile and laugh and live.

The hand moved from the top of her head to cup her cheek, stroking her cheek with his thumb. "I'm not here to hurt you."