“I don’t want to drag you down with me,” Kazuma says quietly. He reaches out, as though he’s about to cup your face, before he lets his arm fall back to his side. Is he even allowed to touch you? It’s his fault you’re hurt. Being his soulmate has put a target on your back.

He bows his head, unable to look at the bruise on your face, at the way you’re sitting in a hospital bed because his name is inked on your skin. No matter how hard he tries to protect you, it’s not enough.