[ he suddenly wanted to gather her up, the vulnerability in her voice heart-rending even if she covered it well. he didn't, though, remaining static and firm, knowing she might need his stillness now. ]

So what, that's it? The do--bowtie bloke just talked to the alien, and everything went back? Seems you're not the only one with a talent for it.

[ he knew what it was like to think death was permanent and be wrong, but he didn't think it was his place to say so. ]

...Does that mean it's my turn, then?