[It stings and it soothes in equal measure - having to let go of something precious and offered freely and earnestly, but feeling reassured that he at least can keep one person from harm.

He gives Mandricardo's hand a gentle squeeze, and finally, a tiny sliver of a smile replaces the grim expression that had settled on his face. It's soft and there's a quiet edge of melancholy, but there's some gratitude there, too.]

Even a small part is more than I should have... but thank you, for being willing to share it with me. For wanting to share anything with me at all.

[There's a moment where he hesitates again, like he's going to draw back - but he decides to be selfish and take just a little, leaning forward to return the kiss from earlier. Soft, careful, more hesitant than forward. Sometimes you are just two lads with self esteem issues!! It's fine. He rests his forehead against Mandricardo's after, closing his eyes for a moment.]

I'll remember it - and you, and whatever you allow me to take for whatever time we have.

[He will remember it if Mandricardo can't.]