[ if there was a magic cheat code, charles would have used one himself — but no, it's not that easy. ]

Hey, [ he says then, as junpei deflates, turning his head and pressing a soft kiss to junpei's hair, ] I know it's real hard to... say it, yeah? Admit that there's some shit you need to work through. So... I'm proud of you. Honest.

[ he hopes that his voice reflects his sincerity; because he is, he's so, so glad that junpei even managed so much as to talk about this. he'd know, right — the way it's so much easier to hold it all in, to pretend it's fine, to not have to face your own demons. ]

Trying's perfect. And take all the time you need, yeah? I'm not going anywhere. [ he's going to be here for him, forever if it's up to him.

the healing activity startles a laugh out of him; but he nods, of course. ]

Sure, love. You can borrow my bat. Or if you want, I can make you one to keep. [ if he wants an enchanted baseball bat... just in case. ]