Nathaniel keeps hold of his hand as he draws away, at once relieved and yearning. He knows what that apology is for, and he can't stand it.

"Don't," he breathes. "Don't blame yourself. You have never hurt me. You're the thing that heals the hurt. Justice...Vengeance broke me like this. You're the reason I want to heal. You're...the reason I've tried to get stronger, every day. Because I know I'll be coming back to you. So you shouldn't say you're sorry, my love. You've given me life."