Erik doesn't need to be afraid of inadequacy -- he is always enough for Chris. Chris moves to sprawl their body out on the sofa (which means halfway onto Erik's body as well) and lays their head on his shoulder.

"My brother Rick was worried when I didn't call, but that was about it on the personal side for folks who gave a damn. Work was irritated by the 'no call, no show' but I kept my job by telling them I'd been sick." Chris gives a wry, brief laugh. "Actually, I told them I was sick with the flu." (Parallels!)

Chris coughs, then says, "I'm glad you're here, Erik. It feels... far less painful to talk about when I have you here to listen. Just being with you... is a comfort."