[ the touches help, the way branlon speaks to him helps. the next time that his exhale is audible it doesn't tremble and he leans into the hold on his face, eyes lidded but focused. ]

I should've trusted more. I'm sorry. I just need to get back into my old skin.

[ when things were easy and certain. he smiles though, at the admonishment for apologizing, reaching up to brush a strand of hair out of his face. ]

I got used to apologizing.

[ a strange thing to say, but he doesn't linger on it and instead huffs an almost laugh, tipping forward to steal a kiss. ]

Don't tell me you've started to go blind like that old bastard, because I'm right here in front of you.

[ then, with a decisive nod: ]

Yes. I'm alright. I'd like to figure out where we'll be staying, I think.