"I'll decide what to do with my heart, thank you," says Aaron, unwavering, "and what it can take before it breaks. It wouldn't be what it is if it weren't for you, anyway." A breath in, calm, resolved. "Julien, tell me what you need, and if I can give it to you, I will. Even if all I can do is listen without judgment, I will do that, and nothing you say will break me."

It is an offer, not a request. If Julien does not want to talk -- if he truly believes it will leave him feeling no better -- Aaron will not ask him to. But, he says, if Julien does, he can.

"And if I cannot listen, then I will just be here, and remind you when I must that you need only be alone when you choose to be."