The emotion shown, coupled with the words spoken--and the truth that Alex knows he'll have to share--makes something further cement in Alex's chest. Something he cannot yet put into words. These are not acts typical of Alex, yes--but neither is the way Neil is acting either. Two days ago, and Alex would have said the kid has been tolerating him--barely. Now it seems more....

Like love. Care reciprocated. With no coyness or pride involved at the moment.

He puts an arm around Neil, holding him tightly, as Alex shifts to kiss Neil's cheek. "It's fine," he replies, voice more rough than it normally is. "You're here now."