[Cassie can hear that awkwardness in his tone. She smiles for a moment, but it falters when he speaks again. She swallows hard, falling quiet for a while to ward off any tears. But as she speaks, she can't help when it breaks every so often.]

...I don't want this to end up destroying you. I've lost too many people here already, I don't want to end up losing you.

[She pauses and purses her lips. She leans forward, pressing her forehead against his and closing her eyes.]

You promise to talk about it? Promise me?