[ Erik can certainly relate to that. But such were the choices he's made, and for better or worse, he doesn't regret what he's worked for throughout the years. Being older, having seen the outcomes of his own actions, he knows he could have done much differently, but there's no point in lingering on that. Time can't go back, all he can do is try to make better choices from here onwards.

So, this is something new he's trying: kindness, and an attempt at letting her know that she's not truly and entirely alone here, not if she doesn't want to be. ]

It's not the same, I know, but I'm afraid I lack your unique abilities. You can reach out to me with your mind if you want, I don't mind. I'm not unfamiliar with the experience, actually.

[ At the very least, it won't be strange or shocking, and he won't mind so long as she doesn't go around digging into his memories. ]