Gene sighs, hugging Tony back and resting his forehead on Tony's shoulder. "I don't want to lose you, either." That's why I can't do this yet. He's also worried about what will happen if he does use the ring - that Tony will be reminded of who he is, what he is, even if he overcomes the impulse to conquer, and that Tony will get cold feet and leave. Or worse, ask Gene to make him forget.

He knows the fear is irrational, and tries to force it down. Tony wouldn't do that to him. Not after everything. This is as much about trusting Tony as it is about trusting himself.

"I'll try and make a decision as quickly as I can. I don't want to risk..." He's gambled so much on Tony before. Gambled and lost, gambled and won.

He's not sure he can predict where the chips will fall on this one - for him or for Tony.