"No more living in the past" he agreed with her as he returned the gentle squeeze of the hand she had given him. From then on out he made a promise to himself to always be there for her, and be the parent she deserved.
He knew just how much her friends meant to her, and it was one of the things that made him love her all the more. She was loyal and that was a trait that deserved very high praise. "I will help you look out for them if you like" he answered. "I promise no one will lay a hand on them or you...." he added. Sure it seemed like a big promise, but if anyone could keep that promise it was him.
"I won't loose you again" he added, looking into her eyes with the utmost sincerity.