[Sometimes, having one other person know your secret is enough. Enough to unburden the mind and ease the sharp edge of guilt that would otherwise winnow its way under your skin, dulling the ache. Times like these, that someone might become the arbiter of forgiveness for exercising restraint, for keeping secrets.

Nate hates being in that position but understands the stress and effort that goes into keeping shit tucked away; not to mention the trust extended to him by someone he genuinely likes.

Hands on his hips Nate nods slowly, worrying his lip with his teeth.]

Sometimes you're never gonna know if you are. [He says with unprecedented sagacity, feeling the words as though they were a palpable weight.] But I- ...I'm glad you said something. We've got a lot of problems here, but miscommunication's the easiest one to avoid.