(That seems like a more than fair trade. His illness time would be sliced to nothing. One night of true rest and more sleep? Sometimes, sometimes, there is rest for the wicked.)

Without a doubt they are the best together. His bravery kindles hers. Knowing that Verity is waiting has helped him try and organize his time with greater precision. She doesn't need to engage in street fights to get his worries and concerns in her direction. How he ended up with someone this good, something this good again?

"I'm willful to put it lightly, honey." And the sky is still blue they say. The small, soft touch to the top of his hand gets his attention. They can't get anywhere close as he would like them to be so he is living for the little details.

"Do you frequently surprise strangers and friends alike?" The bop gets Matt to wrinkle up his nose under the touch. The willow is far more sturdy and long lasting than flower petals. Even in her teasing it's another point of contact to breathe his wants into. "Ah, now there's the reason. I was wondering." A plant he can't kill. She is always so, so thoughtful. "Thank you." For an afternoon that is brighter than how the day had begun, awash with gloom.