"I considered it but..." He sat up, serious for a moment. "The sooner I let you get on with this, the sooner you're back. Beyond that, I won't have you leaving angry with me that you were late because I needed you," he said softly.

He stopped, realizing what he'd said. Pushing to his feet, he moved to pull Arthur into his arms once more. "If anything happens, if you need me, call and I will be there," he whispered in a low voice.