The Doctor had that effect on people. He managed to worm his way under their skin, even if he was an annoying prawn half of the time. It was alright to hurt, natural even.

"You've been gone almost a week," Donna told the Doctor, continuing to run her fingers through his hair lightly, pressing soft kisses to his temple - almost like a mother comforting a child - ironic really, considering he was so much older than her.

"We were worried." And rightly so, it seemed. "I'm glad you're back."