Acting like and pretending things are fine feels safe...I know that, but... even if its uncomfortable for me? I don't need or want you to feel like you have to pretend with me all the time. That isn't fair to you.

[He gives him a gentle shake, attempting a smile.]

You don't usually talk to me about these things, and...honestly, even if it truly sucks, and I hate that you feel this way, I don't hate that you feel comfortable enough to say something.

I don't have to fix things, as much as I want to. You trusting me to listen, even though we both know im solution oriented, that's...this feels right. That you're not doing it by yourself.