[Ben understands action and reaction; it's motivation that trips him up, that he can't follow the clear threads from beginning to end without getting lost. His attention sharpens, however, when she begins speaking, eyes ticking back up without raising his head.
He's quiet while he processes what she's said; they've already discussed the saving aspect. It also aligns with what Alex had said, which is comforting for that fact, but confusing for what it means. That he doesn't know what it means. He's just considering that he doesn't, really, ever want to be touched - he wants her to care, he likes that she cares, but there's some kind of disconnect there, he's aware - when her hand brushes against his and he glances down sharply.
There's a moment when he does consider retreating, just for a while. He could sit with his music and think about what she's said and the motivations behind it, maybe ask Alex another question, maybe Rhade. But he doesn't want to go.
At last:] I just didn't understand. [It is, he's aware, a noncommittal answer. It's the best he has.] But I would like to stay at least a while longer, as well.
[ Spam - Infirmary this time! ]
He's quiet while he processes what she's said; they've already discussed the saving aspect. It also aligns with what Alex had said, which is comforting for that fact, but confusing for what it means. That he doesn't know what it means. He's just considering that he doesn't, really, ever want to be touched - he wants her to care, he likes that she cares, but there's some kind of disconnect there, he's aware - when her hand brushes against his and he glances down sharply.
There's a moment when he does consider retreating, just for a while. He could sit with his music and think about what she's said and the motivations behind it, maybe ask Alex another question, maybe Rhade. But he doesn't want to go.
At last:] I just didn't understand. [It is, he's aware, a noncommittal answer. It's the best he has.] But I would like to stay at least a while longer, as well.