[He thinks on Scott and Amelia telling him they love him in the way of a family. He thinks of Hawke...thinking his feelings were more than that. Tied indeed. It's too many. He wants to laugh, but it won't be a pretty sound.]

You keep your boundaries and don't take on the problems of those who aren't your closest. That's the wisest way to keep your head and ensure there's enough of you for those who need you.

I appreciate that far more than maybe you know. Used to have someone like that here, but he's been gone for months.

[He shakes his head and sits up a little more as he folds it all back down...not under the regal guise, but just his normal compartmentalizing.]

You know, that's my place back home. I'm the rough word afore the soft one comes in to make things sweeter. I make for a harsh healer. I'm not so used to being the one who needs help from another to heal...so thank you. For giving me a start. I needed it.