[Alex smiles a bit wanly and gives half a shrug, and he does a damn fine job of covering any disappointment the subject dregs up.]

I guess the ones that matter are being cool about it .. Sollux and Isabella though .. [He shakes his head, looking upset despite his best attempt at not doing so.]

They'll get there, I think .. I just need to give them time and not push either of them. I can't do anymore about it than I have ..

[And he'd have the scars to prove it for the rest of his life.]