Be Not Afraid — Zoe Cannon

Eremiel spent his eternity shielding humans from danger... until his last charge died in his arms. Scarred physically and mentally, he can no longer be the strong, reassuring protector humanity needs. When a mother's desperate prayer for her child's safety pulls him from his grief, he fears he'll fail again. But maybe his scars have a purpose—one that will help him keep his new charges safe.This short story is 4600 words long. It is also available in Dark Wings, Bright Flame, an urban fantasy short story collection.