[Whatever it is that allowed that connection between them, it's made so much easier to lean in together, to talk and share like they are now. The hard barriers are down and gone, and so now they have ones of working out things between them and how to continue this relationship.]

You deserve more than that, Eliot. You're an amazing man who has been through so much. You don't know that it isn't still there without the triggers. You just have to work on it and see what you can have. I mean, not everyone gets a magic bell to work out the hard parts.

[It's a joke, knowing it's maybe not fair but unable to help himself. If only it might make Eliot relax and maybe looking to a chance between them.]

You aren't weak, Eliot. In no way. And I know you didn't mean it that way but I'm going to remind you of that, just like I'm going to remind you that you deserve the love you want. The love you know you've had.

[He tenses slightly, frowning at that. ]

No one should be disappointed in you.

[No matter what there is between them, Eliot is his friend and Caleb will defend him. No matter what.]

Eliot, you help with me being happy by being you. I'm glad you're the one I contracted with. You're my friend and someone I trust. No matter what happens with me and others, with you and Quentin. Whatever there is, you're my friend, okay? And that means so much to me.

[It was something that had been a fight between him and his former dominant. Friendship as a start hadn't been enough and it had been rough on Caleb knowing he was constantly living up to expectations he hadn't agreed to or wanted.]

I'm happy and safe, and I'm here to help. With any of it. Even monsters if it happens.