[Jean listened quietly. He didn't quite squeeze Lio's hand, but he did add a bit more gentle pressure to his grip. He took another drag, breathing out slowly before speaking.]

I don't know what you lost, but I do know a bit about grief. A lot of people make it sound like it's just something that should steadily get easier over time, but that's not how it works at all. One day you'll think it's getting better, then the next it worse than ever before. Sometimes you're angry, sometimes you're just numb...

I can't tell you there's anything that'll make it go away, because there isn't, but it helps to have something to pour your energy into. Just to distract you, even a little bit, from the worst of it... And Galo, too. Even if he can't fix it, he can at least help, especially when you need it most... Just make sure he knows he can lean on you too, if he needs it.

[It still sent a twinge of anger through Jean, knowing now how Nino had had to hide his own pain while he'd helped Jean and Lotta through theirs.]