"And what will keep you safe?" Adam asked, watching as Ronan's finger traced over his skin, over the beads. His breath caught at the kiss, and he stepped close, pressing a soft kiss to Ronan's throat. "You're what keeps me safe, Ronan. You always have been. As long as you're at my side, nothing can hurt me. So you should wear the beads."

And never leave my side again, Adam thought, keeping his eyes on Ronan's throat rather than his face.