[ That genuinely takes him aback, jarring him out of his morose thoughts. More has changed for Harold than just being traumatized, though; he's also become more direct, less apologetic. ]
The emotional manipulation isn't necessary, [ he says dryly. ] But I appreciate the sentiment. I don't recall us being that close.
[ Rather, Harold remembers Carver as a semi-feral person he was trying to slowly domesticate in some small way, to prevent collateral damage if nothing else. He's completely oblivious to the idea that Carver might actually like him. He'd probably have been less forthcoming about his suicidal thoughts if he'd known. ]
no subject
The emotional manipulation isn't necessary, [ he says dryly. ] But I appreciate the sentiment. I don't recall us being that close.
[ Rather, Harold remembers Carver as a semi-feral person he was trying to slowly domesticate in some small way, to prevent collateral damage if nothing else. He's completely oblivious to the idea that Carver might actually like him. He'd probably have been less forthcoming about his suicidal thoughts if he'd known. ]