"I need another cup," he announced, walking back into the kitchen as Danny ordered. A little coffee, a little pizza, and he'd make sure Danny was secure in bed. John had all but abandoned the idea of anything happening. Danny seemed like he wasn't in any kind of space for that.

But he could be here. John was the last person anyone would turn to for comfort. He was too blunt, too crass, and too cold. But he couldn't help being empathetic- it was just that usually feelings sent him running. And he knew in his heart he should run from this. He didn't want to be the ruin of Danny's already troubled life.

"Ah, hot cup. Much better," he said when he came back.