( Careful, slowly, he pulls away. He's a sorry sight, all bruising and swelling, purple and black blossoming behind his eyes. )

M-maybe we shouldn't d-do uh, do that.

( So much for not worrying. That suggestion is being skipped and abandoned right away. )

You d-don't have t-to do stuff like that here, n-not with me. Here or at home. I w-won't let you down.

( She'll be happier, that way. He'll miss the kisses, but it might be better for both of them. )The other day--

( Things are already so confusing, complicated. )