“You don’t get it,” he snapped, slamming his cane against the wall. “I’ve lost people before. I know what that looks like. What it does to a man.” He turned to face you, eyes burning with something too raw to name. “I don’t just want you safe. I need you alive. That’s the problem.” He swallowed hard. “You’re not just leverage. You’re not just part of the crew.” Kaz’s voice dropped to a whisper. “You’re the only variable I can’t control.”