“If I know anything,” Kaidan starts slowly, quietly, as if giving Evy an opportunity to stop him, “it's that you will do everything you can to see this through, to make it a success. You inspire those around you to give their best. And that is all that anyone can ask for. No matter the outcome, you tried. That counts for something.” Kaidan’s words wash over her, and Evy’s shoulders hunch as the weight of those words hit her. The walls are fragile tonight, and this… this acceptance feels too much. Too big. Too raw. Something must happen to her face, because before either of them really processes it, Kaidan leans forward and reaches out towards her. “Oh, Eve—” Evy doesn't hesitate. She crashes forward into Kaidan, burying her face against Kaidan’s neck as he catches her, his strong arms immediately wrapping around her as he cradles her into his chest. Every moment of holding back, of not wanting to be presumptuous, goes flying out the window as she takes comfort in having him close. He smells exactly how she remembers—amber, clove, and a hint of musk—and Evy’s shoulders shudder as she drops her full weight into him. Evy doesn't cry—she's saving those tears for after—but the breath that comes out for her isn't far off it. Kaidan’s arms tighten further as his hand rubs a soothing path up and down her back. She feels lips press to the top of her head, and feels the rumble of his chest more than hears as he speaks softly, “It's going to be okay, love.”