Cassian gritted his teeth as you told him your story, told him the struggles, the pain, the torture, the torment. Every tiny detail escaped you as you try to be honest, prove your kindness and genuine nature and most importantly that you trusted him. Rhys had told you of Cassian's past, whether that was with his consent, that was unknown to you but most importantly, you needed to offer him the same, offer him your past to prove your wish for him to be a part of your present and future.

You could see the fire in his eyes as you spoke of all the injustice and pain you had experienced, told him every part of your past that you had never thought you'd ever voice to anyone. It hurt to say it all, but it hurt most to see the pure anger that rose in the Illyrian. You finished explaining it all before lowering your head, almost ashamed of the emotional reaction you had caused in him.

Cassian reached a hand out to cup your chin with his calloused fingers from a lifetime of fighting and working with his hands. He forced your chin up so that you could look him in the eyes. His expression was firm, pained and fiery, hurt to see the woman before him to have held so few years yet so much pain and turmoil.

"If I can only truly promise you one thing in this life, Y/N, then I shall promise you that no one will ever hurt you like that again," he stated through a clenched jaw. "For as long as I am by your side, I shall never let pain touch you again."

You offered him a weak smile, reaching up so your fingers could rest upon his cheek. For a fae filled with anger and purpose, his heart held more kindness than he initially let in. You didn't understand how he could take upon himself to care for you as a mere human with little self-worth but nevertheless you appreciated having someone willing to protect you, to love you.

"I would rip out their spines before I allowed those humans to hurt you again as they had before," he added. "I only wish I could have been there to save you from it first."

"I appreciate it, Cassian, thank you for being my person," you smiled softly. "I do not wish for you to do harm to them though, what is done is done and I am just grateful to have you by my side now."

~*~

Written by Charlotte.