He nodded a thank you against her skin and focused on breathing. It evened, slowed, and gradually synced with hers. Finally, he rolled over onto his back, pulling in the cooler air above them. Though one arm remained under her, holding her gently but firmly, and the other crossed himself to keep his hand touching her.

She'd said he didn't have to explain… and he knew it was true; but he wanted to. "Been years since that happened," he breathed, eyes still closed. "Guess I needed it."