[At least it seems to be putting a stop-pin in it getting worse- a temporary reprieve. It's about as much as Varian can hope for right now. He gives his boyfriend a gentle squeeze. ]

Of course I love you. [And he's glad Fern knows that- that he can be confident in saying that.] And you're right it's not gonna change. Not-not ever. [He lets out a slow, shaky breath. ] But thank you, for understanding. I couldn't handle any of this without you.