He's always so protective of his hands, understandable really. So it's surprise that makes her hesitate a moment before she gently squeezes the fingers laced with hers. He's been there for her through this, through everything. Now it's her turn to be there for him.

At last she heaves a ragged sigh and slips her fingers from his but only to rest her arm behind his back, to lean tiredly against him and perhaps for him to lean on her. She doesn't want to leave him without his voice.

"I'm sorry."