Time? [ Alan's brows furrow together in confusion as that feeling of rushed desperation returns. ] I- we haven't had time. We've either been on the run looking for a kidnapper who's not a kidnapper or running away from Taken.

[ He does remember bits and pieces of the time he and Jesse spent doing other things, but he's not sure he should mention that to this Jesse. ]

But yeah, you're right. I'll read them when- when I wake up. [ Wake up? Oh, right, this is a dream. I'm dreaming, but talking to her in a dream. That sounds insane, but I just have a feeling that this is real. ]

This is going to sound absolutely insane, but- I just feel like I should be helping you somehow. Both of you. If I could reach the Alan that you know, I'd... I don't know. He should tell you that you helped. That you're helping. It sounds so weird to talk about myself like that.

[ He huffs out a laugh, because everything about this is weird. ]

And I wouldn't tell her to leave. I get the feeling that she needs a friend. Besides the friend she has, I mean. I'm not good at being friends with people, but I don't think she should be alone. Unless she wants to be, then of course I'll back off.

[ His fingers curl instinctively against hers, as if he's seeking that physical connection but also wanting to give her that connection in return. And maybe that's how he knows this is more than a dream, because their touch feels so real. ]

I think I always did that, even before all this started. I don't know if you'd call it pessimism or realism or- whatever. I just can't seem to help it. But I wish I had half of your confidence, because I don't even know how I'm going to get out of this. If I'm going to get out of this.

[ He offers her a smile and it actually touches his eyes this time. ]

For what it's worth, I am glad that I met her. And of course, I'm glad that I met you too.