He ducks his head in a nod. "Steph-- you're a better person than anyone I've ever met. And I--"

He drags a hand through his hair, not quite breaking away from her but giving the sort of resistance that suggests he's at least a little uncomfortable.

"I love you. And I want you to be happy, and I just-- I'd give anything for that, Steph, okay?" No he is not on the verge of tears, he fucking isn't, all right?