[He's not normally the greatest at hugs. He sits there and lets them happen with barely any response himself, and he kind of does that now, as Dextera pulls himself forward and he's practically in his lap. Guren is relieved, he's shocked, and he's happy, and so it takes a minute or so of just processing it like this, his hands pressed lightly at Dextera's back, over his own jacket draped over those shoulders.

But then, that's not enough comfort after so long. It's not enough joy. His weight shifts, his arm hooks tight around Dextera's waist, and he falls onto his back, taking Dextera with him, pulling him on top of him.

His lips quirk up playfully, and there's more of a squeeze in return, as brief as it is.]

It can hurt to live, after losing someone close to you. [He finally speaks, his breathing slow, forced calm.] It can feel impossible, like the last thing you want to do each and every day. But I'm glad you did. And there are plenty of people who are glad you did.

I know the pain of that memory won't go away, but I hope you know that much.