And K is only too happy to welcome him, to pull him closer, to steady him against him with arms wrapped around tight. When times are better, times are calmer, he's in awe that Jesus lets him be this close; now, he tries to wrap himself in that privilege, to breathe in this space Jesus makes for him beside him.

"I'm trying," he promises, licking his lips as he catches his breath. "I just don't understand how."