[ His chest twists again as he turns his head toward him again. ]

It's not a bad thing. [ There's a tentative sort of fondness in his voice. ] I think you would get along.

[ It had been difficult when he was in Nayeshi, watching John on the other side of the Gray Space once he finally found him. Only able to watch, unless his life was in danger - no matter how badly he wished to intervene. Now, knowing how badly everything unravels - how it all ends, he regrets not acting.

But Viktor is here - or as close as they can get, not a specter behind a grey, soundless veil, and no one gives him orders now. He hesitates again, still uncertain over how much space or comfort he even wants right now, but after a moment he unfolds his arms and sits next to him. ]

I was afraid of something like this happening, yes. Because I know you've never wanted to hurt anyone. [ His brow furrows. ] I don't blame you for this.