[ Neil's arm wrapped around Tieria's shoulders, holding him close. He... knew that it wasn't fine. That Tieria was hurting, and would hurt again and again, until he found a way out.
And he felt selfish, so selfish, for giving him a reason to stay here. A cage was not where Tieria Erde belonged.
He reached with his other hand, stroking gently through the purple strands of hair. Kissed the top of his head. ]
There has to be a way I can help you. I'm... [ He closed his eye. ] I'm sorry I haven't asked before.