Ric would work through it, in time, and Elijah carrying on was both the exactly right way to make that happen, and the best thing he could do for Ric's pride. It let him have the reaction, and move on from it at his own pace, rather than trying to choke it back or force it through, too fast. It was literally perfect for him.

He brushed his thumb across Elijah's cheekbone, definitely affectionate and, fuck, he didn't know if it was going to happen again, but... He hoped so. This was the most relaxed, clear, and focused he'd been in too long. Elijah had given back at least as much as he'd gotten, probably more. That alone formed a connection, for Ric. Not quite gratitude, or anything that simple or insulting, just - affection and maybe the start of understanding.

"How long did you forget, this time?"