ED-E returns to the pair when Neil waves, first with distance and then closer to the sitting men. When Neil reaches to him, he doesn't quite understand, and it's only when his arms close around the metal sphere of his body that ED-E comprehends. Alex is here, but Neil is still reaching to hug him.

He gives a quiet trill of surprise, resisting the urge to jolt away. He burbles confusion and affection, and when Alex reaches to pat him, ED-E thinks he understands.

It's family. And family is there for each other.

He lowers more, making it easier to reach.