Noah doesn't miss Ronan's nose in his hair, or the way his breath is warm against his scalp when he breathes and speaks. That's his favorite thing about humans, they're always warmer than him and it feels so good to be close to them.

He hasn't gotten to cuddle with Ronan in a long time.

Back in Henrietta, Noah had been the one to find Ronan after his nightmare had attacked him. His skin had been shredded, he'd been bloody and out of it and it had terrified Noah. He knew that it hadn't been a suicide attempt, that Ronan's dreams were real things that could do real harm, and being the only one who knew about it gave him a unique responsibility. He made sure to look out for Ronan, check in on him while he slept. Sometimes, when Ronan would thrash or make noises, caught in the middle of a restless dream, Noah would lay down behind Ronan, hold him and try to keep him calm.

Now there aren't any nightmares, and he has no excuse other than he just wants to. He's been spoiled with affection here in Darrow, and he won't be made to feel ashamed about wanting it - or wanting to give it.

"What am I doing right now that makes you think I'm going to leave?" Noah asks, running his hand idly up and down Ronan's back. "I know I can't always control it, but I'm not planning on it."