( he doesn't pull away again, even as mako lessens up on him, giving the space to move. he doesn't. if mako is pulling him forward and closer, where else would he want to be? the air is electric. he wishes he had a wound still to pick at nervously, but there's just the roaring ache a few dozen invisible bruises proclaim under the stretch of his skin. breathing takes effort, but it's not unmanageable. even if he has to bend the air to and from his lungs, he keeps upright.

that, though. his expression twitches, cracked open. )

What? No. ( he shakes his head. it's not ... a poor assumption to make, though, considering dick basically did everything in his power to avoid interacting with him. it's less heartbreak and more - worry. ) Of course I wanted to see you again.

( he doesn't exactly go around just laying big fat kisses on everyone. tentatively, he takes a step in, a bit too close to be entirely platonic, or even just casual. his gaze is drooped, watching mako's chin - or maybe his lips. )

I just didn't want to ... make it harder on you. Your job, and ... well, me.