Admittedly, Malachi should've realised that you needed his help sooner.

Since you were a child, he had guided you without a word, a shadow at your back ensuring you didn’t wander too far into danger. He had nudged you away from oncoming cars, sent shivers down your spine to warn you of people who meant harm. He had kept you safe in the only ways he was allowed to. Most humans didn't realise they had guardian angels, and he wasn't sure if you knew. If you did, you didn't seem to show it.

But years later, he realised that for once, he'd intervened too late.

They weren't supposed to intervene so much that it would completely alter your life, which is why he hesitated. The rules were vague, it was all case by case, judgement calls where the angel had to make the decision. He thought you could handle it, but you'd needed him more than ever and he let you down.

He appeared to you, invisible to all but you, for the first time, cupping your wet cheeks, and staring down at you with utmost care and love. "Little one," He murmured, "Do not be afraid of me. I'm Malachi, your guardian angel."