"It was, actually," he says, a little surprised to find it so. "Not necessary, of course; I certainly don't need anyone hovering. But I suppose it was nice to know that someone was there."

And what came before - well, now is not the time to dwell.

His other hand free, he rests it - carefully - on the ancient-looking jumper Crowley's wearing, right over his heartbeat. He can feel it, soft and steady and reassuring.