It's not. [He'll say it as many times as Steven needs to hear it. He couldn't hate him. He never could, whatever is going on in his head or whatever obstacles they've still got to face and overcome. Packaged deal now, right?]

Steven-- [There's a hitch to his breath now. He's not there to see Steven face to face. He can't even get a good glimpse from one of the mirrors. But it doesn't matter. Those words make something inside him clench with want, with just a little bit of guilt maybe, like he's caused this somehow. Like he's not left Steven with any other options besides the broken soldier living in his head--

But that's momentary in comparison to the warmth he feels, the affection. The hand that had been resting on the one under Steven's control drifts up his body slowly to brush over his jaw. It's not-- quite the same. But he can feel Steven under his fingertips, he can at least touch in some small way.]

I am all yours, you know. You don't-- have to be embarrassed with me, Steven. You can tell me anything you want, you know?

[He doesn't have to worry, doesn't have to fret or hate himself or-- anything. Not with Marc.]

I want you too.

[Does that make it hurt less or more? He's not-- sure, but it's the truth at least.]

Maybe always have.