It was a big question and not one a lot of people tended to ask others or themselves. But the 'why' was just as important as the kneejerk reaction and the gut clench, even if the why was 'I don't know'.

Raylan was still and silent as Neal worked out how to say it, giving him the room to navigate as he watches the way it all moves over Neal's face. He could tell this ran deep, this reason, deep into the unknown as Neal stumbles and stutters. His hand stays draped on Neal's thigh, heavy and steady.

There wasn't much to do about the way that Neal was feeling. Watching someone else get picked over you when you had already been so important stung. Raylan sets his glass down and shifts to take Neal under his arm, encouraging those knees and legs over as much as needed.

"That's a hard one, darlin'. Just because he made that choice in that situation doesn't mean that he'll make the same one in others, but. I understand why that isn't an easy option or the first one you consider. I think Malcolm is tastin' happiness and as wonderful and amazin' as bein' in love is, people do some weird and abnormal things sometimes to defend it. It's not an excuse. That doesn't mean I can't see the magic in it blindin' him a little."