[ The urge to curl around you is great. But he lifts that cigarette to his lips again, takes one long shuddering drag to center himself.

It doesn't work.

This is a sigh. A heavy one. ]

I can still hear the apology in that.

[ Turning to face you now, letting his gaze follow the curve of your form. ]

You really don't need to apologize for anything. You didn't fuck up. If you did, then let me share the blame because I haven't been able to figure out how this whole thing works.

Hikaru.

[ Please, stop beating yourself up over things outside of your control. ]

Look at me.