[The hand is squeezed carefully. Not too forceful, but no less reassuring. His thumb sweeps over the skin there tender as he can. He's insinuated as much before, but he knows loss. He knows pain. Even if he can't put it into words, he can at least offer companionship.]

That's what's important. This place can be cruel. Inflict all kinds of torture. But you're keeping him from that. It's the most we can ask for.

[He can't argue the want to change the subject. He wants to, but he's already started to figure out just how similar they are. Smiling through it, or at least fining something else to focus on, is far easier than anything else.]

We can do whatever you want. Remind me what all is on it, again?