Steve moved when James did, sliding behind the man beneath the blankets so James was leaning back against his chest, cradled between his legs. He made an excellent bolster pillow, and it was easy to help the man if he seemed shaky. As much as a part of Steve wanted to scold and demand answers, he couldn't deny the deep satisfaction helping James gave him. He was built to take care of people and giving James all the love and support he'd tolerate was a dream come true. Steve rested his cheek on the man's hair and cuddled him close from behind, gently guiding James' head to rest against his shoulder.

"When you need me, I'll never have anywhere else to be James. You come first, and if anyone has an issue with that, I probably don't need them in my life." Which was true enough, if perhaps just a bit sad. Steve didn't want to think about anyone he cared for having an issue with his actions over James, even if they happened to be justified. He'd waited a hundred years or more to find someone that loved him who didn't get torn away before things could be explored. He wasn't giving that up.

"Just rest love. I'm not going anywhere."