Picture this.

His face registered no sign of any emotion. His eyes were hard, but she could not read them. She used to be able to, but the sudden turn of events left him and the rest of them shocked. Now, she felt hopeless not knowing what he was feeling.

She framed his face with her hands. His skin was cold, as always, but somehow it felt colder this time. She bit her lip, not knowing what to say. He avoided her gaze, and continued staring at a spot behind her. She had to do something, anything. But what?

Tip-toeing a little, she managed to press her lips gently against his forehead. Then, she moved to his cheek. And the other cheek. Soon, she started kissing him everywhere, never touching his lips. He closed his eyes, trying not to lose his composure. He made himself think of the others who awaited his command, his guidance. The others who looked to him in this dire situation. He thought of her, in his arms, and he shut his eyes tighter.

"No matter what," she whispered, leaning in close to him, "I'll still be here for you."

He let out a haggard breath and opened his eyes. "I know. But there is just so much... Too much..."

"Shh." She put a finger on his lips. "Let's not talk about it anymore."

He hesitated before looking her squarely in the eye. This time, she could see the pain and the anger in his eyes. She felt oddly relieved that she could detect some kind of emotion in him, but also scared. She could not remember the last time he was angry. Memories sometimes cover bad experiences.

"I have to get back," he said, stepping away from her touch. His voice had an edge to it, one that she was frightened to hear. "Do not try to stop me, for I will not be happy until this ends."

And with one final, searing gaze, he left her standing there, afraid and uncertain.