Gaeta swallows, watching the color drain from Louis' face. This is the closest he's felt to being present since coming home; gods, why couldn't the numbness persist for just a little longer.

Oh, love.

It's too late. He's done it. Now they'll both be all right.

"Keep your head down," he says again, softer, and turns to continue on toward the Admiral's quarters.

I'm sorry.