[ They just washed up so he can be allowed, but it's probably for the best that he doesn't- the braid is enough to make him make a small sound of protest and then-

He grabs Epel's hand and searches out the back of his head to bring him in against his chest and hug him to himself. ]

That doesn't mean you need to do more than you should. It's late.

[ Plushie now. He'll just rest his cheek against Epel's hair. ]

... it's good to have you close. Even if this is the last place I'd rather you be in. These twelve days have been... disorienting.