Cole listens, quiet and content and peaceful in a way he usually doesn't manage. He likes being read to. A lot. And his eyes half close along the way, but they stay open, if unfocused and watching Ben's ribs.

"Throat dry, those last few sentences cracked, I need water, I think, will he want to do this again, I think he wants to do it again- Yes, I would. This was the nicest time I've had here. Since... maybe since Elize and Cullen left the Fleet."

He reaches behind him and pulls out a worn flask, offering it up. "Water. I carry some, in case."