[The words are powerful. Obediently his hand curls, looping his finger into that ring and then curling his grip tightly, holding by that tether. He's silent for a long moment — but he knows Cy isn't waiting for a quick response, and the pause isn't out of any denial of those words. It is to let them sink in, to be permanently laid into memory.]

I won't say that it doesn't still frighten me at times — this feeling. Its depth and intensity. But I realized that fear isn't because of how I feel for you, it comes from the thought of losing it. Losing you.

[He can admit this aloud, now, when previously even visiting the subject was enough to grip him with frantic terror.]

You make my life feel like it matters. That I survived all of this for a reason. So, thank you. I won't forsake what you've given me with that love.

[A tug at the collar pulls Cy in closer, claiming a kiss from his mouth.]