The dreaded but. Why is there always a but?

Come on, Arianna,” I plead as I hold her close, “come back to me.

I couldn’t leave you alone with them. I’m your Guardian and I swore to protect you, no matter what.” And if anything had happened to you I’d never be able to forgive myself. You’re already too important to me, and it scares me.

We fall into silence and I let out a defeated sigh, resting my head against the cold stone wall. Great, just great. I’m not only stuck who knows where for who knows how long, but I’m stuck here with a crazy chick who thinks she can see the future.

So much for my one and done strategy. Guess I’ll be here for a while. It could be worse. It could be a fat old man I’m having to guard instead of a cute teenage girl.

Arianna, hold on! I’m coming!” I yell as I watch the life leave her eyes and she falls to the ground.
“NO!” I scream as my eyes fly open.