( if they're both gross tear-covered losers, then clearly it's fine to be a tear-covered loser. that's the thought train billy's going with, anyway. and there's so much stuff he has to talk about with teddy, more than six months worth of catching up to do--and that's going to open up a whole other can of hurt and lengthy discussions, crying and hugs, so maybe--maybe not just yet.

both arms wrap around shoulders, one hand sliding up to press fingers into soft blond hair. )

I'll tell you as many times as you need to hear it. ( his heart still aches, a thrumming discomfort with every beat, and billy's so close to just bursting into tears again--but he manages not to. for now. ) That I love you, that I--I need you around, T. That you're more important to me than I could ever manage to say clearly.