He isn't expecting Noah to speak at all and it's more the catch and break in his voice than what he says that makes Ronan's skin prickle, stomach twisting with a confused mix of emotions. Anger, empathy, outrage. Pulling in a breath, Ronan keeps his arm tight around Noah.

"You wanna say why?" Ronan asks, but his voice is quiet and curious. Not demanding at all. "Don't have to," he clarifies, moving his hand enough to ruffle Noah's hair gently. "You know we're glad to have you around more often."