[ There's a difference, maybe. Between. Between scared and disappointment. Between disappointing and... and... what? The thought's beyond him now. Too far beyond him, maybe something for later, but there's something to be caught here, something that would sort this into sense. There is a difference, even if he can't name it. She wouldn't lie to him. Katrina would never, never lie.

She called him the best.

She means it.

She said this is different.

He wouldn't leave her, he would never!, but she said something about an accident and don't accidents happen with people who've been drinking? Sheldon... Barry... Aunt Mary... Someone said they hadn't been drinking?? But people who are not Katrina and who aren't Wallace lie.

Oh, maybe that's a problem. Maybe that's the reason for the rule, the first rule of Fish Family.

Her head's set against his and this time her presence steadies him a little. Reminds him that there's ground for standing on right now, that she hasn't banished him that she hasn't, what, let him banish himself? She's always, always here for her monster.

A small smile, flickered and fragile, but beginning to believe her. For now, at least for now. ]

No. Not our rules. Mm. I know you never would.

[ He rubs his forehead against hers, just a little, careful bit. ]

All right.

No drivers, no disappointments. Just parrots. Just you being... not disappointed? Me being not disappointing.

Lucky, lucky Fish.