Gavin's heart wrenched, and he almost took a step toward her but kept himself still. "... Pel, I can't change the past for you," replied after a moment, "But it's too late, now. Whether I give her away now, or later... That's still all I would ever be. Someone who failed her."

He breathed through his nose, looking down at the ground.

"But you're right. I can't do it on a trial basis." There was a long pause. "I'll just have to go with her, whatever happens."