"Everyone learns to endure this kind of loss eventually. I just… didn't expect it to come so soon."
Circe took his hand in hers and gave it a firm, reassuring squeeze, just as he always did whenever he sensed she needed comfort. Her fingers tightened around his in an attempt to calm the turmoil behind his eyes.
"You have been through so much, even as a child," she murmured, reaching up to touch his cheek with gentle affection with her free hand. Her thumb brushed lightly against his skin, lingering there. "And just like with all the others in the past, you will overcome this. I know you will."
She truly believed every word. He could hear the conviction in her voice, see it reflected in her eyes, which shimmered with honesty and unwavering faith in him.
"I will get through it and I don't doubt that," he replied, certain, "because I have you with me. You and the tiny miracle growing inside you are my entire world."
