[ He tucks his arms under her knees and holds her up, lets her settle comfortably against his back, even if she clings to him a little more tightly this time around.

He turns his head just enough to rub his cheek against the top of her head. ]

I’ve got you, sweetheart. Just hold on until I get you home.

[ Giving up on the pretense that he’d ever been headed towards the Old Hall - which he hadn’t - he turns down the last few side streets separating them from the loft. Climbing the stairs, he slips inside with her to the quiet apartment and carries her back the hallway towards where her room and bath are located.

Once inside, he turns until he can set her down on the edge of the counter holding her sink before turning to face her once more, making sure she’ alright. His fingers brush against her cheek, back her jaw. ]

I’m going to get your bath started, okay? Can you sit here for me until it’s ready?