Jonathan Sims

As Martin starts to settle, tears and sobs turning to weariness and soft, occasional shudders, it's impossible not to notice that John's started crying as well. He seems like he's trying to hide it, so Martin doesn't want to remark on it or draw attention to it in any way, but it makes him feel a bit better all the same, that he's not the only one. He ends up holding onto the hug even after he's mostly calmed down, wanting to give John time to settle as well.

When he apologizes, though, Martin can't help but pull away somewhat, blinking at him, his eyelashes still damp. "No it's not," he says, attempting to sound firm despite the shakiness in his voice. "W-we had to try."

He's not sure of that, exactly; he'd felt comfortable enough staying where they were told and waiting. But he thinks that's probably very cowardly of him. He's always been a coward, but John's not. John had to try, is really what he means, and he wasn't about to let John go off on his own.

"A-and you did come find me," he says, too sheepish and too near the shock and trauma of their separation to smile like he means to.