[ In this, Cole doesn't apologize, because with certain things, he doesn't feel he should. It makes him shy, of course, since he doesn't like the hurt that comes with this at first. Cole digs around in people's darkness without meaning to, and at first, it always scares and hurts. But he knows by now that he can help, and that's enough for him to continue, even if it's gently. His voice takes on the shyer quality again, less confident as he drifts away from someone else's thoughts. ]

It's not. But it drifts in anyways, since I hear the things that hurt. I don't mean to. But I can help.

[ Which is probably the most straightforward answer that Zara has gotten out of Cole, actually. But before he can ask more, he puts the hat back on his head, hiding the greasy hair once more. He adds with a softer voice still: ]

Her hurt touches yours. That's how.