"I thought you didn't want me anymore."
Ethan's voice was laced with hurt. Those people with unknown agendas chasing him—he could handle that. What truly scared him was the idea of her leaving him.
"Don't be silly. How could I ever leave you?" Eleanor said gently. "It was just... something happened these past two days, and I couldn't get back to you in time. But Martin, no matter what happens from now on, I'm not going anywhere. Ever. Even if... even if I suddenly disappeared or something, it'd only be because something beyond my control happened. I'd never just walk away from you, okay?"
She held his hand firmly, her tone serious. "You have to remember that, Martin. I'll never leave you. You're the best little brother in the world."
Ethan nodded. "You're not gonna leave, and
