[ He hadn't thought it would be this easy, so close to the surface anyone could reach out and poke the aching wound with a stick. But then, with the state of the man, it should have been apparent: this is what it looks like to near the end of the rope. ]

Well, there's your problem.

[ He tips his head, considers the man before him. ]

Ignoring impulses comes with side effects, this month. Doesn't mean you should go slug the guy, obviously, that's generally more trouble than it's worth. And I'm not telling you to go hug it out, either.

[ He laces his fingers, taps his fingertips against his knuckles in consideration. ]

I think the squid gods are trying to force us all into therapy. As though we didn't all have reason enough to begin with.