I have no doubt that you were. Truly, I do not wish to patronize you. [And he doesn't, because it was not fair to her. Yes, there was likely more she could have done, but hindsight did not give license to condescend.] I wish most that I had been there to guard you.

[He met her gaze for a moment before long lashes flickered over his eyes, and Sephiroth looked away after the blink.] It would ease my mind. I can't-- [He shook his head, cutting himself off.] Please.