“Don’t touch me,” Angel hisses, withdrawing from you further. He feels sick to his stomach, his mind racing. Another nightmare. He should be used to them by now, but he’s not. Doesn’t think he’ll ever be.

Your presence keeps him grounded even if he wishes you’d leave. You know how dangerous it is to be around him, one touch and you’ll lose years off your life. Angel doesn’t want that to happen to you.

He closes his eyes. “Please,” he whispers, but he doesn’t know what he’s asking for.