{Some part of him - some little speck of the child he used to be - gives into a whim, then. He leans in and rests his forehead against Undertaker's shoulder, eyes closed. Yes, there is that feeling of being appreciated and protected. Even if his friend and confidante did nothing else for him, this is more than his father ever did.}

I was lucky. Right when I needed it most, my friends and my wife-to-be closed in around me. Franny was there too, distracting me with being the best Earl possible. I think I disappointed her more often than not, but I am myself. I cannot pretend to be anyone else and I will not do something that is at odds with who I am.

{He lifts his head slowly.} I have no wish to distance myself from you.