“I’m really glad you’re here,” Neal says. He almost says it loud enough for Keller to hear, but decides to keep it quiet at the last moment instead. It’s not about making Keller jealous, not that statement. It’s about Norton being here when Neal needs someone he knows is on his side.

I love you, he thinks, like if he thinks it loudly enough, Norton will know without him having to say.

“You done, or should I come back later?”

Neal loosens his hold on Norton, turning so he can have an arm around the other man’s waist when he answers Keller. “You’re more than welcome to leave and not come back.”