[Whoof. That's a million dollar question right there. He exhales, slowly, keeping his hand steadily where it is. Actively doing his best to project a more comforting air while he sorts through how to answer. But - he can't just sit here in silence, either. That won't help.]
I hear you. [Boy does he ever. It's not quite stalling. It's talking aloud to get the right words in place.]
Lance... why do you think I try like I do to keep things quiet? Keep things behind closed doors? [They both know what things Shiro's talking about. People have seen him crack, for sure. Lance likely among them - which probably says a lot to how often it's happened, that he can't pinpoint exactly who and when.] No one wants people to see them break down.
It's - it's a personal thing, I think. In a weird way. Your barriers are down, you're open. It's terrifying.
no subject
I hear you. [Boy does he ever. It's not quite stalling. It's talking aloud to get the right words in place.]
Lance... why do you think I try like I do to keep things quiet? Keep things behind closed doors? [They both know what things Shiro's talking about. People have seen him crack, for sure. Lance likely among them - which probably says a lot to how often it's happened, that he can't pinpoint exactly who and when.] No one wants people to see them break down.
It's - it's a personal thing, I think. In a weird way. Your barriers are down, you're open. It's terrifying.
So no, I don't think it's crazy.