Always isn't possible for vampires. They do have a larger taste of it than most. He has lived long enough to understand the press of years and how heavily they weigh when one is isolated from all but bonds of obligation rather than those taken in love. His hold tightens, as though he could physically prevent the march of attrition or disaster just by willing it to stay away.

"I'll do everything in my power to ensure it." Against the city he has little power. If those who rule it choose to eject her from this plane, or him, then they will experience loss. Against almost any other force, he has a better chance of keeping her intact and at his side.

"You're part of me now." Empty space full to bursting. A feeling he hadn't known how badly he missed until he had it, not that any bond is interchangeable with another. She feels very different from Meerlinda or Mary, different from Mornay or the rest of the Council of Seven.

But he feels like Kindred, not just a vampire, and he once more has a sense of clan. This will outweigh any grief or longing for lost friends. It's already a balm to his spirits. There's more calm in holding her than most other things he could do.