[with rio eased it's safe to ease again, still rubbing at his eyes in annoyance as he sighs.] So, some Trench effect then. A glimpse into what could have been? How invasively enlightening on matters we both could have lived without learning.

[irritation is easy, less so when pal is being sweet, just as he apparently would be in much more severe circumstances. he lets himself have this, just rest an arm over pal's waist and even his own breathing.

that not question gets a helpless, amused exhale, more on the side of humorless really.] I do not think I am unworthy of your affection, if that is what you are concerned about. [that's true at least, but it feels a little like a lie to leave it at that, and after a long moment he haltingly offers,] I can sympathize with his feeling of failure in his life thus far. Our work in the Trench will counter that, I have no doubt.