I don't really like myself without you
He kept her close even as she thanked him. It was no his nature to call someone a liar. He might think it sometimes, but Ironclad had a knack for seeing the good in others even as a small child. It was stronger when he was younger, one reason he clung so closely to Xiomara, but the older he got the more he learned the world had some scary creatures in it. One day someone might take advantage of him, but until then he would continue to take others for their words and the kindness they showed him. Lace has never done anything to show him she would lie. They had never spoken like this before, but he had always been glad there was someone to love his brother like she did.
Her face presses to him as she agrees to stay. Lace could stay forever if that was her wish. She could stare at the sea every night for Letavice to come home much like he will do on his morning and evening patrols. Suddenly, Lace began speaking of loyalty. She offers him her strength once she is feeling better. She offers him undying loyalty, something a young King would need for his kingdom to grow. Why is it this that makes him cry? A single tear slips down his dark cheek as he squeezes her close. ”I vow to never do anything to waver your loyalty Lace. I will try my damndest to keep you safe and as happy as you can be under my care.” Why make all these promises when there was no way he could know the future?
He thinks this is what his brother would want. He would want to know Lace was safe and at home where she belonged. ”You are a part of this family with or without my brother.” He whispers as he holds her close to his beating heart. Just like he watches over his growing family, his children, he would now watch over Lace. Thor help whoever came to take her away.