He continues to look shy, something soft and bittersweet in his eyes, but reaches out tentatively to stroke Phenex's hair with the backs of his fingers. "You make me feel like I belong somewhere, here, alive. That means a hell of a lot."

His smile tilts to something almost sly, though he gives a casual shrug with one shoulder. "It was intended to be an offer of more," he admits. "But I'm gonna have to go slow. I know it feels right to be with you, and honestly you're pretty fun to flirt with. I just might need a little time and patience."

"Family's kind of fraught sometimes." He touches the edge of one of the flowers in their hair lightly. "I'll do what I can, though. Promise."