The warmth of the cord is a little unnerving. Layla half expects it to start moving, to show itself to be some strange alien creature disguised as rope. It's almost a relief when it startsl glowing instead.

Almost.

"You know me better than anyone," she says, quiet but steady. "The good parts and the ugly parts. We've fought together against impossible odds. I've trusted you - both of you - with my life, and I will again. There's no one I'd rather trust with my soul and my sanity."

She squeezes his hands gently, beneath the glowing cords binding them. "You're my choice. Today, and every day until the stars go out."