Toby held her close and smiled when she put her head on his shoulder. He felt warm not just on his shoulder but inside, where it mattered. He listened to what she said about his detachment, it rang somewhat true, and he couldn't help but wonder what kind of stuff she did at the hospital...psychology? No, it was obvious why he kept his stronger feelings inside, you didn't need to be an expert to do that.<br/><br/>"My...." he paused for a moment, considering how he should word this, "My father taught me, that sometimes one has to give up certain things to protect others, even if they are complete strangers...he said, 'Son...there will come a time in your life when you will be needed by others, and when that time comes... you just have to be strong, you may not like what you have to give up in order to do this, but in the end the result should be worthwhile.' I didn't know what he meant by that until now...but i know what I have to do, I have to be strong for people for now...and right now, I'm going to be strong for you ok?"<br/><br/>Toby gave Ashley a reassuring smile that showed he didn't keep everything inside, he held her close and looked out the boarded window at the zombie filled streets.<br/><br/>"And the part about letting it boil over...if it's gonna boil over on anything, it'll be the zombies I'll make sure of it." Toby let out a laugh and looked back at her, smiling slightly.