Bearclaw Valley If I was born a blackthorn tree

She tried to be as delicate as possible as she treated his wounds, but there was only so much pain she could prevent; that didn't stop the stab of guilt in her stomach. She was supposed master pain and not feel so awful witnessing her mate's pain but that was another thing she wasn't sure she could do. It was another way she was likely failing the bear. The worst part was that when it came to Aves, she would take whatever punishment was coming if meant he was safe here with her. 

She pulled back as he spoke, finally finished with his wounds. His question made her frown. Because I have not conquered fear as Merrick has, and I could not leave you there by yourself and risk you being killed. Was this the reason for the tension? She should have known. I can't lose you, and I will do whatever it takes to keep you with me, she continued, resolve on her face. I am not sorry for that. She swallowed the panic that had risen in her throat at the memory of him flying through the air and crying out when he hit the ground. She had worried he was dead then and she never wanted to feel that way again. He promised he wouldn't leave her.