He lowers his eyes, swallowing a lump that has somehow built in his throat as he listens to Murdock's voice waver and his accent thicken - the words working their way into his brain and warming him.

"I..." his voice cracks and he clears his throat loudly, forcing himself to look back up when he finds his words again. "I love you," he exhales loudly; "for putting up with me and forgiving my mistakes."

He lets out a slightly awkward laugh, squeezing his hands again; "And I swear to you that I will do anything to protect you."

Even from myself.

Forcing back the lump again, softening his normally sure voice, he manages; "For as long as I have the honor of standing by your side."