"... I said look," Nic clarified.

Laurel blinked, "Oh... you don't like sweaty women?" she suddenly teased. Maybe she was spending too much time around Rosen...

That thought seemed to cross Nic's mind. He chose not to reply. He dug through one of his drawers, messing up what Laurel had folded neatly. He pulled out his old scarf for a moment before putting it back and taking out a clean socks.

Laurel slowly walked over to him and picked up the scarf gently, "... What's your brother like?" she asked as she stared at the knitting.

Nic took some time to think about it. "Kind," he decided.

Laurel ran her fingers over the knitting, "... older or younger?"

"Younger," Nic replied.

Laurel smiled a little sadly, "Are you a better older sibling than I was?"

Nic slowly shook his head, not looking at Laurel.

Laurel glanced a Nic, "... he's... gone too... right?" she whispered.

He nodded a little.

Laurel slowly leaned over until her shoulder touched his, "I'm sorry." she whispered, "I guess we both failed as... protectors."

Nic didn't say anything else, not moving.

Laurel watched Nic for a long moment, "Sorry..." she finally whispered, leaning over and giving his cheek a light kiss, "I didn't mean to resurface painful memories."

Nic shook his head. "Nah," he replied. "I don't mind."

"I can never..." Laurel sighed, "read your thoughts." she complained a little as she turned away.