[It's only then that Albert steps enough out of his own misery to realize that Ignis is hurting, too. Of course he would, Albert reasons. After all, there was more at stake for the two of them than he can now ever know, and their bond was a complicated one. The fact that someone from Ignis' world could come and go just like that must be harrowing. Albert is a stranger by comparison, almost an interloper, and it's with shame on his face that he covers the hand on his chest with both of his own.]

You're absolutely right, of course. She may well return, and I'll welcome her with open arms.

[He takes Ignis' hand and presses gentle kisses to his fingertips before folding that hand between both of his, squeezing firmly.]

I do wish I were a stronger man, though. My heart would do much better to be made of iron.