That gets him laughing, too. It's less rusty these days, closer to natural, if still a bit wry. He's nodding and finding it strange how parallel both of them can be without ever realizing it until these moments of catching up. Maybe it is Fate. He has felt its hand here so frequently now.

"I was telling someone that not so very long ago, that we need at least one person in our lives who sees the best in us despite our flaws. The person we're desperate not to disappoint." It keeps them more honest, but more importantly, it's armor plating against despair and self-loathing.

"Whether I want your opinion or not, not only will you have it, you'll state it. It's good to have those people in your life, too." Amusement flashes in his eyes. "Not that you asked, but I agree. I'm glad I have the...space here...to set that down from time to time." There aren't a thousand knives pointed at him at any given time looking for a chink in his armor, ones who could successfully bloody him if he gave the opening.

"It makes things much more interesting."