Cole doesn't expect to be able to undo the damage in a few words. It's taken Ben years to become this scarred and tender and it will take a long time to heal it to something better to live with, but Cole has time and he wants to help Ben heal.

Not just in his usual way, where he wants to help anyone who's suffering. He wants to help Ben.

Cole doesn't move away. He blinks as his hat is pushed up and then smiles slightly, inordinately pleased that someone wants to be able to see his face. "Okay."

His hand reaches out, just a little, silent, unobrtrusive invitation.