For so long, Eric wanted to tell him that; to drive home that he was selfish on a level that betrayed everything that their bond was meant to stand for. Eric was loyal and suddenly in a matter of a day, he left him to exist alone in a complicated world without him.

And yet he squeezes Godric's hand so tight, afraid to let go because he can't bear the thought of losing him a second time.

"I forgive you for leaving," Eric whispers, taking his free hand to cup the side of Godric's face and bring their foreheads together. "But don't leave me again. I'm not sure what will become of me, if you do."