*slowly fits arms around his waist, fixing his around her shoulders, and pours all the strength and sympathy she can find into him* Please. Just … let it go. Lean on me for just a minute, please.
*Tony hangs his head a little, unsure of himself and how to respond, but he does what she’s asked.*
Thanks…
Shhh, no. This is what I do. I don’t need thanking. This is what I’m for. If you feel even a little bit better, than it’s right.
*Tony chokes out a laugh*
No, you… you get my thanks. Not many in my life would do as much as you have.
Hah. You don’t even know my name. No. No; this is what I do. Don’t thank me. *presses a hand to the middle of his back, then lets go* You don’t have to be so strong all the time.
Ahh… You’re right. I don’t. I’m sorry. *he cringes a little at having opened up so much to someone unfamiliar to him, but it had helped.*
*sighs a little* I offered, remember? /This is what I do./ Don’t apologise for something you needed so badly. Is there aught else I can do?