He laughed a little. "I'm far from the best Strider. The best would have changed this town already. The best..." He shook his head, cutting himself off. Comparing himself to the 'best' was a fool's game and he knew so. He had enough pride to admit that he knew he was skilled at his chosen profession. Very few people could cope with what he had seen and done. Fewer still could push on and continue to serve. Carson turned further toward her, lifting one leg up onto her bed as he shifted her hand from his back to his lap, holding her arm in both of his hands. He stroked her fingers with his thumbs one by one as he let his eyes close, focusing entirely on the feel of her skin against his, the curve of each digit in his hand.<br/><br/>"This is where it starts," he said quietly. "This is where we turn into the chaos. This is where we force it to work with us, or it destroys us. Whatever comes, though, I'm glad to be facing it with someone I can rely on." He slid his hand into hers and squeezed tight, eyes opening to look her directly in the eye. "From now on we're a team. I'm a poor replacement for what you've lost, I know, but still. Whatever I can do, whatever I can bring, consider it at your disposal. Okay?"