It’s been hard on him. But, [ there we go; with everything ready in her lap, she now sets the mystery contents of her package neatly on the nearest nightstand or whatever would serve as one. it’s organized like it’s ready for a photographer, which may be a bit of aesthetic eye candy. ] he’s been getting help he really needs. If he’s a little distant these coming days, I wouldn’t think too poorly of it. I’m proud of him for giving it his all.

[ “don’t worry about anything weird” is what she’s trying to assure him with, here. now, daniel isn’t exactly . . . positioned the best way. scooting a bit closer, makima offers her hands in direction of his back and pillows, and asks, polite and attentive: ]

May I?