[When the other looks up, his instinct tells him to smile, even if he is not okay. He ruffles the other's hair, aware that whatever adrenaline or energy was keeping Basil up is now running low- it has been a talk and he had no way to address the real issue too, but... one step at the time.]

Mhm. We're two friends who really, really love each other and that's beautiful,isn't it? So let's be strong together.

[With that, Kel merely bends a little, trying to pick up the other between his arms. He needs time to process his own thoughts, about.. Something. About Basil's words. About... everything. And the best way is getting the other to rest and then possible stare at the ceiling for a while and internally scream as much as he needs.]

I'm glad you allowed me to stay. But you seem tired, want to rest together for a while? I can keep an eye open and make sure- [Marigold climbs up, one way or another, jumping beteen Basil's arms.] Nothing weird comes closer.

[A pause.]

Thank you. For trusting me.