( Even in this dire situation, Louis feels a pang of tenderness for Lestat as he tries to think of the most compassionate way to solve this. Of course they both know that oftentimes there are no happy endings, only conclusions that they must learn to live with. With one arm still holding Lestat close to him, Louis reaches down to take Lestat's hand and give it a firm squeeze. )

I love you.

( Louis says it because he can't help but say it, moved as he is by Lestat's tender heart, and because he knows there is a very real chance that one of them could still be badly hurt in the attempt. He holds Lestat's troubled silver-blue gaze, hoping that Lestat can sense Louis' complete trust in him even through the veil that keeps their minds separate from one another. )

It's a sound plan. I'll follow your lead. Please don't do anything too reckless.

( He knows that's like asking a fish not to swim, but. )

I can't stand to see you hurt again.