[ It's a practical sort of reason, the one that Gene gives him. The kind of thing Nate has most definitely told others, if hypocritically, and the kind of thing that folks have absolutely told him. Burdens are easier carried with two or more people, a fact of which he is abundantly aware, but it doesn't keep him from wanting to protect them from himself or what tends to follow him.

They're dead, but that doesn't mean they can't die. That they can't be hurt. His tolerance for it is stronger than so many people's, it seems stupid to pass it on when he's capable of wielding it himself. ]

...look, I appreciate the gesture.

[ Something he tries to convey with the utmost sincerity, taking a patient breath, exhaling slowly. ]

But it's my problem. I can handle it. I'm not trying to be brave, or stupid, but his beef is with me. I don't want that to extend to anyone else.