Derek's hand is warm at the back of my neck, a comforting weight for a few seconds as I let out a breath. Funny how, even just a few months ago, that touch would've had a whole different sort of affect on me.

"I'll keep that in mind, thank you," I tell him, watching a second as he turns back to his cuts of meat. I hesitate for a second or two then, nervous about possibly overstepping some kind of line before just going for it. I'd like to think that Derek is one of my closest friends here even if maybe he doesn't feel the same way. I shouldn't be so worried about, I know.

"You, uhm... you seem really happy lately," I manage, grabbing a bowl now for the butter and eggs. "I just-- it's nice to see. Really nice. I've wanted to see you happy for a really long time."