"You should." He nuzzled at his temple, hugging him securely close. "You shouldn't say what you think anyone needs from you. Just what you want. Really want, okay?" His tone was gentler, so much gentler, and he kept up the petting, soothing him with his hand and making sure he could feel his presence close.

He didn't try to hush him, because he knew more than anyone how rarely the man cried.