He can't quite manage frustration at the feeling of tears prickling. Never been one for tears, always one to hold them back even if they do come. Always have to suck it up, stiff lip, chin up.

Nothing comes out when he first opens his mouth. Yes is a possible answer. But how does he articulate what he wants in this moment? "I-" Take a breath, breathe. "Do you ever think," he starts again, carefully, though not without a waiver to it, "about stopping?"