[Hope for Daan. That sounds absurd, he hasn't felt hopeful for much in so long. Though maybe Vergilius does just draw that out of him, as well. Making him hope for a bit more, yearn for kindness, grab onto the affection given to him like a starved animal being presented with the most pathetic of meals.

He returns the kiss with a shudder, still skittish and uncertain, but he does want it. Whatever is willingly given to him. So he leans into it lightly, hesitantly holding onto the Fixer's hand more, rubbing his thumb over the knuckles.]

Well. Seems like I can't see myself the way you see me either.

Maybe because you've got the eyes for it. [hey if he tries a little humor misdirection maybe it won't be so obvious how emotionally vulnerable he is right now]

...Just don't come up with shit like that for me. "You deserve better" and all that. You are better than anything else I've ever had. I mean it.

[And he goes in for another kiss. Just as cautious, just as light.]