’Cause the Reds didn’t chew you up and spit you out, Stevie.

[He sighs faintly. He knows Steve will probably still disagree with him, but...]

You’ve always had that goodness in you. Never changed even with the Howlies. I saw it every damn day and was so fuckin’ proud...

But I don’t think I was even me anymore when you found on that table. Nothing really felt right anymore, even when it was supposed t’ be.

[He just never knew how to say it, and maybe saying it all now is too late, but he’s gotta say if Steve’s ever gonna understand.]