[ The brim of the hat dips lower, a sort of shy uncertainty in the gesture. There's a pause too, like he's been reprimanded, but his voice is careful when he finally responds. ]

I know. It's always something to deal with on your own. Words to soothe as a salve, but not a stitch. That's what I am.

[ Because ultimately, Cole is rarely able to fix the problems he feels. That's something to be done one one's own. But he provides what he can to make the process either. ]