I falter a bit when he shifts, but then he's drawing me close, my back against his chest, and I lean into him, feeling mildly overwhelmed for a moment.

I could cry I'm so happy, and yet still sad. Some part of me still wonders if this is his way of saying goodbye. Wonders if after this he will leave me while I sleep, slip away and never be found again.

His face is against my neck, and he's whispering his love to me. A small, almost desperate, little laugh escapes me, and I turn my head so I can nuzzle into him. Into his hair. I breathe him in, deeply. As I have wanted to since I was able to free him. As I have always wanted to do.

"You are my everything. A part of me." I speak softly into his hair, hoping my voice doesn't break. "My Take-chan, I'd be nothing without you. You make me shine."