( he pulls back when he sees it. doesn't mind or mention it, just gives her somethin' of a nod. he gets it. he's seen it in soldiers an' civilians alike. they eschew touch as violence has been done them, an' they see it as a vessel of hurt. he knows better than to take it personal, an' he sits with his hands neatly folded between his knees in the aftermath. )

That's mighty sweet of you to say, Angela. But don't you bother yourself none about me. I can handle my own troubles.

( he says it with the conviction of experience. gene ain't a fighter, that much is plain. but he's a man well-used to fights just the same. an' he ain't never been afraid of confrontation or standin' up. his ma was a suffragette, an' she taught him well. )