Stone Circle Well, I've been afraid of changing

He whipped around at her words, making her slow a little in surprise. Had he not been grieving right then, his command would have made her bristle. It had been a long time since it had been acceptable for him to talk to her that way. But his next words—the desperation she heard just under the surface, it made her forget whatever indignation had flared up before. Whatever had been in her expression before fell away. 

When he spoke again, it all made sense. If anything happened to him...Then I would make sure they're taken care of, she promised him. It was an easy promise; of course she would take care of his children. Just like he would do the same for her. He pleaded with her then, taking a step forward, and she searched his face for a moment, seeing the fear there even though he was trying to conceal it. Concern filled her expression, then. How could she not go see them now? Okay, Sia. Take me to them, Taki told him with a curt nod. She couldn't handle him looking at her like that. She motioned for him to lead the way so that she could follow.