[ He hates how he reacts just as much as he hates how he can see the briefest flash of doubt or worry or fear on Jesse's face. It's barely there at all, only appearing for a second before it's gone, but he's seen it before, and it's always because of how he reacts to simple things like touches and sudden noises. If he could stifle the reaction, it would be better for both of them.

A response is on the tip of his tongue, but then she turns and walks away to put away the dinner he didn't touch.

I don't know how to explain it so she'll understand, but she knows more about things that should be unexplainable, about AWEs, about how thresholds work. What I know wouldn't even fill a page.

He stays at the foot of the bed for another second, but he shakes his head. ] This is fine, Jesse, thanks. Really. [ He looks down at his feet for a second before looking back at her. ] Thanks for putting up with me.

[ And then he moves over to his side of the bed and joins her in sitting down on top of it next to her. ]

Yeah. Today was- well, it was alright. Better than most days. It's better when you're here too.