Skies, he hoped she meant it… he hoped she wasn't being self-sacrificing for his sake… he hoped he could be forgiven for accepting the answer and taking her hand, to stand. Then not immediately letting go. But just stood there a moment, holding her hand, looking down at it.

He found words, finally—even possibly lighthearted ones: "If you end up having to kick me back out, I'll understand." More intently, "But thank you."