[ He could feel the heat behind his eyes, a feeling that he couldn't quite pin point filling him up from the chest outward. Touched, maybe. Just incredibly touched, that she would say that, and believe it.

He had to swallow, so that it didn't break in his voice when he spoke. ]

Thanks, Gunny.

[ He swallowed again, blinking a little too much. Come on, Kamal. Keep it together. He pulled in a long breath, went to take another drink, but paused - watching the curve of the planet disappear around the other side of the station, and the sky fill with nothing but velvet black pinpointed with stars. ]

... I know I shouldn't wish this place on anyone, [ He started carefully, his voice quiet, ] But I'm damn glad you're here, Gunny. I don't think I'd be able to handle this place without you.