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[homosexuals]

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HZF

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[kobes]

I AM capable of taking care of myself too, Hawk. And I'm careful, I'm not going to do anything stupid. [Well.] I have people I need to keep safe too, you know, and I'd rather it be me interacting than them, if he's really that dangerous. Will you keep me updated, at least? On what else you find out?

[Of course he's noticed; Koby's dedication to attending the gym daily doesn't mean he isn't constantly aware of his surroundings. He's seen Hawk's exhaustion, the withdrawn way he moves. It all adds up in his mind, slowly, bit by bit, adding to his various theories.]

I know that, Hawk. You'd rather put yourself in danger and push him away than see him get hurt. I get it, really.

But he's still hurt, you realize. And he should get a choice in what happens, even if you think you know better.

[homosexuals]

Best way to keep yourself safe is to not interact at all. You really wanna give this guy more ammo?

Of course I will. And of course I realize that too. Christ, I'm glad you get it. I'm not some stand-up guy, Koby. I've always done what I needed to do, even if it hurts the people who don't deserve it. But sometimes it's better than the alternative.

Just - hang tight. On all of it. Okay?

[kobes]

No, but ignorance isn't the answer either. I don't think there's a clear-cut solution this time.

And I think you're better than you assume you are. Maybe resigning yourself to being less than that is an excuse. Or maybe you can't help it, I don't know.
I know it's hard to turn off. It is for me too. I'm not used to having other people worrying about me or caring if I'm hurt. I don't know how to handle that.

I'll try my best. And if I don't see you at breakfast I'm giving you 5 minutes before I go to the library.

[homosexuals]

There is. You just seem dead-set against it. Don't tell me you have a thing for this guy. You ever heard of a narcissist? Sociopath?

...Well, I'll take it into consideration, alright? That's the best I can do for now. It's not about excuses, I'm just trying to be honest and set expectations.

I'll be there. But just in case: you know what to do.

[kobes]

No?
He's nice to me. He's in the library all the time. Maybe I can find out more by talking to him. [Obviously recon is the only motivation here.]

If it's the best you can do, then thank you. I know it doesn't come easy. But you can trust me.

I won't let you down.