[This is the sort of thing that would have been alarming and entirely off-putting at the start of this. He doesn't know how to deal with emotions in other people, and his own tend never to stray too far from anger. It's a lot, but after four damn weeks, he's starting to get a better idea of how to handle it.

So he doesn't flinch or even react much, instead he pats Dist's arm again and fishes a handkerchief out of his pocket to pass over.]

You don't have to apologize. I can imagine just how much of a relief it is to feel as though you're no longer alone.

[He does, because it's exactly what he's been dealing with. He's careful with his nails when he squeezes Dist's hand reassuringly.]

I will be right here, whenever you need me. Once this is over, we can work out how to proceed. For now... keep your head up. We'll make it to the end of this together.