Natasha held his gaze, that soft, understanding smile remaining on her lips. “I know,” she replied, and she meant it. She knew how hard it was for him, this wasn’t the first time they had discussed it. She knew and she understood and she respected that feeling. She didn’t want to push him nor make him uncomfortable, she never wanted him to be uncomfortable with her. No matter what they did she was glad that they were always honest with each other, and that was enough.

“I won’t push you,” she continued quietly, stealing another quick kiss. “Just know that I’ll be ready when you are.”

It was what he had offered in the very beginning of their partnership. He knew so much about her life from the research that was done on her, but he never tried to speak with her about it, never tried to push her to talk, to open up, to trust him. He had just waited, had told her his stories and opened up to her until she was comfortable enough to do the same.

Ducking her head she nuzzled against his neck, his jaw, until her lips reached his ear. “I love you,” she whispered. “No matter what.”