And he leans into the cuddle immediately, resting a hand on John's wrist in a loose, implacable grip.

"You don't have to, you know. Be happy all the time for him. I know- I know you love him, and want the best for him, but that's- those aren't mutually exclusive. And the more you try and force that happiness, the more the resentment grows."

He gives a soft chuckle. "You're allowed to love him and also want to give him a few solid whacks with a pillow when he's being daft. I've heard it's rather typical in your situation, actually."