[ Tim’s head snaps up at that. His eyes are red, but he’s almost angry now. He’s not misreading this, dammit. ]

Yes, you do. That’s why you went to Dick and told him all about how I can’t have a normal conversation with you anymore because I’m not what I used to be, and I’m not what you want. I’m trying too hard to be what I think you want because I don’t know what else I’m supposed to do because every time I even try to get near what I want - you don’t want it.

[ He doesn’t want Tim to argue with Gaia. He doesn’t want Tim to make any promises. He’s not interested in Tim’s protection at all, and that’s as close as Tim has dared to get to what he Wants. ]

I’m sad. Fine. I’m a mess. My normal is hiding all of that. I’ll pull myself back together. It’s who I am.