It would be easier if he could just say yes. Yes, the Hulk said all of those things earlier, just in his own terse way, and that would be that, all wrapped up in a nice, neat little package. But he can’t say that without lying and he’s not going to lie.

“Not all at once. Not just today. It’s like, every time I talk to him, I get a little more of the story. The loneliness and the desire to protect people, that happened today. But I guess it’s been happening more than just now, since he’s been helping people and giving them rides – which I’m still jealous about since he isn’t giving me rides, by the way – since that day he brought you back.”

He inches closer, ever so carefully sliding an arm around Bruce’s waist, not knowing if he wants space or not but refusing not to make the effort. “That was pretty much all it was today. We hugged, I kissed him – not like what you’re thinking, there weren’t any tongues, it wasn’t like the way I kiss you, it was like kissing family, and I told you I was going to do it weeks ago, don’t be mad at me, I wasn’t cheating on you, I was just trying to make a point – and then we went and caught the tiger. Not by his tail. That would’ve been animal cruelty. I don’t go in for that.”