Air. He understands that. But. He rushes over and throws his arms around Neal, holding on tight for a moment before letting go and stepping back.

He hadn’t expected this. He thought Neal would be there for him when it was over, but clearly Neal is working through some things himself. And trying to help him hadn’t gone over well. But he at least Malcolm needs him to know that he cares.

“I’ll be back later,” he murmurs, backing slowly towards the kitchen uncertainly.