The Lion and the Snake

I could see the panic in his eyes underneath all those layers of anger. Could feel him holding me tight enough to hurt, because he was terrified of letting go. And to be honest, so was I. My heart shattered as I looked at him, knowing I had to leave him like this. Wishing like hell I could take him with me, tell him everything. I didn't want to go alone either. I wanted him by my side.
Before I even knew what had happened, I'd thrown myself into his arms, hugging him to me for dear life. I squeezed my eyes shut hard, telling myself it was gonna be okay.
I'd see him again.
I would.
I had to.
"I'm sorry, I know, I'm sorry." I whispered, my voice shaking, my arms wrapped tightly around his neck. I was about to leave behind the only person that kept me grounded. Even when I despised it. My breath came uneven, as I tried to calm myself, talk myself into everything being okay. I wanted to tell him I'd come back, but I didn't want to give him a false promise. Not unless he asked for one. I took one last shaky inhale of his scent, for comfort, to remember in case I needed it.
My throat closed up, hot tears stinging the back of my eyes in retaliation because I wouldn't let them fall. I needed to be brave. It was time to be brave.