Cassian was caught between reactions: the warmth of Jyn's description—her enduring capacity for affection—and the cold of that same dread—that anyone could just disappear.

'At peace'. If this is the price of peace…

The universe—any universe he could imagine—was a murderer. Anyone could die at any time in millions of ways. Was this any different?

Yes.

Don't lose her for fear of losing her… don't ask her a question then not handle the answer…

In this moment, it was too difficult. Cassian turned onto his side to envelop her fully in his arms and just… held on, unable to hide from her his heart suddenly pounding—the silent panic attack.